Black Cats snap up trio

Sunderland have completed the signings of defenders Ian Harte and Danny Higginbotham and striker Kenwyne Jones.



Former Leeds United full-back Harte arrived on a free transfer and has signed a one-year deal at the Stadium of Light after impressing manager Roy Keane during a recent trial.

The 29-year-old defender is a former team-mate of Keane, having shared the pitch with his new boss during the course of his 64-cap Republic of Ireland career. Harte's most recent club was Spanish side Levante where he spent three years after leaving Elland Road in 2004 but he left the Valencia-based club earlier this summer at the end of his contract.

"It's great to be back in the Premier League and I'm raring to go," said the player. "I want to get playing as soon as possible. This is a good opportunity for me at a massive club like Sunderland, and there are plenty of Irish lads here to make me feel welcome."

dead-ball

Harte is considered a dead-ball specialist and has scored a number of high-profile free-kicks and penalties, including 11 goals for his country.

"I've played alongside Ian and I know his qualities he can bring to our club," Keane told the club's website. "You need a big squad in the Premier League and he will add strength to ours."

Southampton have allowed Jones to join Sunderland for £6million, with Stern John arriving at St Mary's as part of the deal.

Trinidad & Tobago international Jones, who had also been a target for Derby County, handed in a transfer request last week and the 22-year-old has now completed a move to the Stadium of Light.

Meanwhile John, 30, has made one substitute appearance for the Black Cats this season, grabbing a last-gasp equaliser in the 2-2 draw at Birmingham City.

great character

The £3million signing of Stoke defender Higginbotham completes the trio of deals.

"I'm pleased that after long negotiations we've signed a player of Danny's quality," said Keane. "I know him personally and he's a great character. He can play at centre-half or left-back so his versatility will be a big plus for us."

Higginbotham started his career with Keane at Manchester United before joining Derby in July 2000 for £2million. After three-years at Pride Park, he moved to Southampton and made more than 100 appearances for the Saints before joining Stoke last season.