Football League World
·31 January 2023
Football League World
·31 January 2023
Joe Anderson has admitted that he cannot wait to get started at Sunderland and is looking forward to the challenge after sealing a permanent move from Everton.
As confirmed by Sunderland’s official website, Anderson has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats possess the option to extend his stay for another 12 months due to a clause included in his contract.
Signed for an undisclosed fee by Sunderland, the defender could potentially make his debut for his new side when they head to The Den to face Millwall on Saturday.
Anderson has become the fourth player to make the switch to Wearside this month.
Sunderland recently bolstered their squad by securing the services of Joe Gelhardt on a temporary basis from Leeds United.
Pierre Ekwah and Isaac Lihadji meanwhile have both sealed permanent moves to the club.
With the window set to close this evening, it will be intriguing to see whether Sunderland opt to engage in any further business having sealed a move for Anderson.
Speaking to the club’s website about his move from Everton, Anderson said: “I’m over the moon to make the move, the minute the club were interested I wanted to come here.
“I met the head coach and really liked what he had to say, and the fact he was also a centre back means I’ll have a lot to learn from him.
“It’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to and I can’t wait to get started.”
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The Verdict
This could turn out to be a shrewd bit of business by Sunderland if Anderson is able to hit the ground running for the club over the course of the coming months.
Having only made four senior appearances in the EFL Trophy during his career to date, the defender will need to lean on Mowbray’s guidance in order to adapt to life in the Championship.
Anderson’s arrival could force fellow centre-backs Daniel Ballard and Danny Batth to step up their performance levels which in turn may have a positive impact on Sunderland’s fortunes.
With the Black Cats currently eyeing a push for a play-off place, the 21-year-old will be determined to help the club stay into contention for a top-six finish by producing some assured defensive displays.