Dion Sanderson reacts to his deadline-day switch and tells Sunderland supporters what they can expect

The Wolves youngster has joined from Wolves on loan until the end of the season, adding some much needed depth to Phil Parkinson’s squad.

Parkinson had been in the market for a new defensive option after seeing summer signings Morgan Feeney and Arbenit Xhemajli suffer long-term injuries.

Feeney is expected to be out for another two months, while Xhemajli will not play again this season.

Capable of playing as both a right-back and a centre-back, Sanderson is highly rated but not yet a central part of Wolves’ boss Nuno Espirito Santo’s first-team plans.

He made ten appearances for Cardiff City during a successful loan spell last season, and the expectation through the summer was that a return to the second tier was more likely.

The Black Cats swooped late to conclude a deal and the 20-year-old believes it is the perfect place to build on his first experience of senior football.

"It’s a massive club and I hope I can contribute to a successful campaign,” he said.

"I enjoyed my first-team experience with Cardiff City last season, and I believe this is the best opportunity for me to build on that. I can play right-back or centre-back – I just love defending and I love tackling. I can’t wait to get started.”

“I can play right-back or centre-back – I just love defending and I love tackling. I can’t wait to get started.”

Parkinson said the youngster would bring athleticism and competition to his squad.

"I’m pleased to welcome Dion to the club,” he said.

"He’s a young and athletic player who will add further competition to the squad."

Sanderson will not be elgible to face Swindon Town on Saturday, with his signing registered after the 5pm cut-off.

Parkinson will therefore have to reshuffle his defensive pack, with Tom Flanagan suspended.

Conor McLaughlin and Luke O’Nien are the likeliest options to drop into the back three, while Jack Diamond could also be considered.

Sanderson will link up with his team-mates on Monday, ahead of Crewe Alexandra’s visit to the Stadium of Light the following day.

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