Sunderland have announced that defender Glenn Loovens has left the club, after just a single season of his two-year deal at the Stadium of Light.

Loovens only joined the club last summer, following his departure from Sheffield Wednesday, signing a contract that should have kept him with the Black Cats until the end of the current campaign at the earliest.

The centre-back struggled for opportunities last season however, making just 13 appearances in all competitions for Jack Ross' side, all of which came before the turn of the year, as the Black Cats missed out on promotion to the Championship following defeat to Charlton Athletic in the League One play-off final.

Speaking to the club's official website following confirmation of his departure, Loovens said: “I would like to thank everyone – the players, staff and fans - for the support they’ve shown and the help they’ve given me throughout my time at the club.

“Sunderland is a special club and I would like to wish them all the best for the rest of the season and beyond.”

Black Cats boss Jack Ross also spoke about Loovens' departure, and paid tribute to the defender's attitude during his time at the club, saying: “It has been a pleasure to work with Glenn because throughout my time knowing him at this club, he has been a brilliant professional.

"He’s always looked after himself and been an excellent role model around the club. On behalf of everyone at SAFC, I would like to wish Glenn all the best for the future.”

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It has yet to be revealed if Loovens has another destination lined up for the coming campaign and beyond.

The Verdict

This may be the best move for both parties.

Loovens doesn't seem to have got the opportunities he would have wanted at the club recently, so it does seem to make sense for him to look for more regular football elsewhere.

Given his experience at this level, you do feel as though he will have offers come in to help stay in the game at this sort of level at least.

That is something that may also be helped by the comments both player and manager have made here, which do appear to reflect well on Loovens approach and dedication to the game during what was a difficult time for him at the Stadium of Light.