Sunderland have today confirmed the departure of experienced left-back Bryan Oviedo after two years at the Stadiun of Light.

The 29-year-old has left to rejoin Danish giants FC Copenhagen, with whom he spent two seasons with before moving to Everton, bringing an end to his seven-year stint in England.

In a statement published on the club's official website, Sunderland said: "Sunderland AFC can confirm that Bryan Oviedo has joined FC Copenhagen.

"The left-back, who moved to Wearside from Everton in January 2017, returns to the Danish Superliga side seven years after departing following a two-year spell at the Parken Stadium between 2010 and 2012.

"SAFC would like to thank Bryan for his service to the club and wish him all the best for the future."

During his time at the Stadium of Light, Oviedo made 77 appearances as the club dropped from the Premier League to League One.

But the Costa Rican stuck by the Black Cats and turned out 23 times in League One last season, notching four assists in the process.

However, with Jack Ross keen to trim the club's first-team wage bill, Oviedo was always likely to find himself leaving this summer.

It has been a busy transfer window for Sunderland with five new faces arriving and six going the other way with just days remaining to carry out any more business.

The verdict

This is the best move for all parties ultimately.

Oviedo will feel he should be playing at a higher level than he is at the moment and Sunderland badly needed to clear some space on their wage bill in order to strengthen their side further.

It has been a decent transfer window for the Black Cats, although a couple of their signings, such as Marc McNulty and George Dobson, come with a few question marks over them.

A real statement signing before the end of the season is definitely desired among the fans and possibly needed as well.