Sunderland have moved to plug the gap left by Bailey Wright by confirming the signing of former Ipswich Town centre-back Tommy Smith on a free transfer.
The Black Cats are in terrific form in League One at the moment, with their formidable defence a key reason for how Phil Parkinson has managed to turn the club’s fortunes around and see them battling for the automatic promotion places.
In January, Parkinson moved to strengthen in a number of positions throughout the lineup, making for a much stronger spine, with one of his focuses the centre-back slot.
He eventually fell on Bristol City centre-back Bailey Wright on-loan, who hit the ground running with four clean sheets in his first five league games on Wearside. However, the club were dealt a huge blow when he injured his ankle in the 1-0 triumph over Oxford United last time out, seeing him ruled out for eight to 12 weeks.
They have since dipped into the free agents market to plug this alarming gap in the squad and have now confirmed the signing of Tommy Smith on a free transfer.
Subject to international clearance, the New Zealand international will join after last playing in the MLS for Colorado Rapids, on a deal that lasts until the end of the 2019/20 campaign.
The 29-year-old had this to say to the club’s official website on the move: “I know a lot about the club – the history and the fan base. I am delighted to be a part of it and hopefully, I can help push the team up towards the Championship.
“I’ve heard about the Stadium of Light and the atmosphere that is generated and I am just really excited to step out there for the first time and hopefully success can follow.
“I see myself as a leader on and off the pitch so hopefully I can use that to be a good addition to the squad.”
SAFC manager Phil Parkinson added: “I am delighted with the signing of Tommy Smith. He is a good addition to the squad and will add competition to the back three.”
Are these Black Cats facts true or false?
The verdict
It’s no shock to see Parkinson confirm a central defensive signing and he might have found a very solid addition in Smith.
Free agents typically present problems for clubs mid-season as they lack fitness, but Smith has been playing recently in the MLS so should be able to get up to speed quickly.
He certainly has the pedigree to slot right into the League One promotion chase after being an important part of Ipswich Town’s Championship tenure.
Parkinson has moved very smartly here and while losing Wright is a big blow, they haven’t done too badly in replacing him.