Sunderland have confirmed that they have reached an agreement to keep Aiden McGeady at the Stadium of Light, with the winger signing a new one-year deal with the Black Cats. 

McGeady's previous deal with Sunderland expired at the end of the 2020/21 campaign, with it unclear whether or not the Irishman would remain as Lee Johnson looked to rebuild.

Doubt has now been put to bed, though, with Sunderland confirming on the club's official website that McGeady has agreed terms on a one-year deal and returned to pre-season training.

 

 

The 35-year-old was frozen out last year under Phil Parkinson, but returned to the fold impressively under Johnson.

In 31 appearances in League One, McGeady scoured four goals and registered 16 assists - a tally that no other player managed to better throughout the entire division.

That form helped Sunderland reach the play-offs, but they were beaten by Lincoln City over two legs and are now facing up to a fourth consecutive season in the third-tier of English football.

The 2020/21 campaign was not all full of disappointment for Sunderland, however, with Johnson leading them to success in the Papa John's Trophy. McGeady starred in that Wembley win.

In total, the former Preston and Everton winger has made 134 appearances for Sunderland, scoring 33 goals across all competitions.

The Verdict 

This is great news for Sunderland ahead of pre-season.

McGeady was crucial to Johnson getting a play-off push back on track last season and you feel that if Sunderland are to stand a chance of winning automatic promotion next season, they are going to need the winger on the top of his game.

Johnson clearly knows how to get the best out of him and if he can continue doing that, Sunderland are going to be one of the division's favourites for promotion.

Thoughts? Let us know!Â