Defender opens up on his Sunderland departure

The 22-year-old defender spent the second half of last season on loan at the Scottish Championship side and will officially join on a two-year deal from July 1.

Out of contract at Sunderland this summer, Beadling was keen to get his future sorted quickly, his departure announced on the same day as Stewart Donald's takeover was confirmed.

Beadling said: "It’s something that’s been in the pipeline since I came up here, so it wasn’t too much of an issue.

"It’s about the next chapter and moving on. It’s a fresh start, fresh scenery, and about getting out and playing some games, that’s what I wanted.

"It didn’t quite happen for me at Sunderland, but I’ve no regrets and I’m here now.

"There’s a lot going on there at the minute and I really hope they get it sorted and get back to where they belong."

The centre back made 11 appearances for Dunfermline and scored one goal during his loan stint last season.

He added: "It’s nice to get it over the line and done and dusted, and I can look forward to next season now.

"There were a few things came in but, to be honest, I wasn’t lying when I said I enjoyed it here, and I want to do well here.

"I enjoyed playing here and I played every minute when I was fit, so that was the main attraction.

"But it was also the players, who are good lads, and the fans, just everything about it, I enjoyed it, and that shows in me coming back."

Beadling, who has played for Sunderland Under-23s in the Checkatrade Trophy, didn't make a first team appearance during his time on Wearside and will now link up again with former SAFC winger Allan Johnston.

Johnston added: "I think he’s got a lot more potential to give and he’s got the attitude to match that as well. I’m sure he’ll be a massive player for us next season, especially if he keeps progressing."