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Sunderland AFC have completed the signing of Scotland international goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin.
The 30-year-old free agent has signed a two-year deal and becomes Jack Ross’ second summer signing, arriving with a wealth of experience within the Football League and beyond.
Born in Edinburgh, the in-demand stopper enjoyed a standout 2017-18 campaign with Scottish Premiership outfit Heart of Midlothian, and this led to his international debut in May 2018.
McLaughlin rejected the opportunity to extend his stay at Tynecastle, opting to return to the Football League and join Ross’ squad.
Speaking about the goalkeeper’s arrival, the Sunderland manager said: “Jon was in Scotland last season, but he’s spent the rest of his career in England and played in successful teams in this division.
“He’s a really good signing for us because he will bring security and stability to that position, as well as experience to the team, and play a key role moving forward.
“He’s a safe pair of hands.”
The goalkeeper started his career with Harrogate Railway Athletic and Harrogate Town before signing for Bradford City and making 145 appearances for the Bantams during a six-year spell.
During his time at Valley Parade, McLaughlin played a pivotal role as the Bantams won the Sky Bet League Two play-offs and reached the 2013 EFL Cup final.
He joined Burton Albion in 2014 and was part of the side that earned back-to-back promotions, winning Sky Bet League Two in 2014-15 before finishing as runners-up one season later to reach the Sky Bet Championship.
McLaughlin was singled out for his efforts during the latter campaign and was named in the PFA League One Team of the Year for 2015-16.
My son would be better than what we had and he's (currently) 5' 10" and only 13 years old!!