Callum McManaman reacts after leaving Sunderland for Wigan Athletic return

The 27-year-old, who had one year left on his Sunderland deal, has rejoined the club where he made a major impression in the early stages of his career.

He told wiganathletic.com: "It's great to be back. All of the lads and the gaffer seem spot on. I saw a few bits on Twitter yesterday and today from the fans and it seems like everyone is happy. I'm buzzing to be a Latics player again.

"I didn't want to leave in the first place to be honest, so I'm made up to be home and to get going again.

"I've been following games for the last few years, especially last season and the gaffer's style definitely suits me. When I spoke to him he's been great and all of the lads speak very highly of him.

"I've had some great times at this club and I'm only still 27-years-old, so I can't see why I can't have more good times here. I want to go one better.

"I don't think I realised until I left just how good my first time at the club was, the grass isn't always greener."

"I know a lot of the lads here, mostly from other clubs, so settling in will be fine. I know Max (Power) really well, he's a good lad and I've known him for a while. I haven't played with him before, so I'm looking forward to doing well on the pitch together."

McManaman also had high praise for Jack Ross, saying: "The gaffer there is brilliant and I think they'll do really well this season.

Sunderland have begun the search for a replacement and are expected to add another winger to their squad before the window shuts.

They remain keen to add at least two strikers and two central defenders, with Glen Loovens due for a medical in the coming days.

A deal for Reading midfielder George Evans is also expected to be completed.