'Huge; class; excellent!': Sunderland fans rejoice as Phil Parkinson clinches deal for sought-after defender

Phil Parkinson has tied down the centre back to a two-year deal and supporters feel his signing is a real statement of intent ahead of the new campaign.

Here’s what fans were saying on social media:

@parkersafc said: “Great news. Pleasantly surprised with our business thus far. Keep it coming “

@MJacko1989 added: “Excellent signing that! Ha’way the lads man”

@StuHooley posted: “Over the moon with that signing. The owner could literally walk away and not invest in players so far he’s not, so some credit has to go to him! It’s going to be better financially for him if he does put a league winning side together, need 5 or 6 more to follow wright.”

@ConnorMMedia tweeted: “Huge. If we get a decent keeper in with Wright, Willis and Flanagan in a back 3 infront of him and pre season to get used to the system we might keep a few clean sheets.”

@john_elkerton commented: “Well now you're talking, a proper defender, welcome back Bailey Wright....the news really made me smile”

@dave_mackem added: “Class news, now more class in center mid and up top please”

@Mat1y0802 said: “Great statement of intent for the new season, get sarkic in now”

@TheWearsideRoar posted: “Very pleased to see Bailey back, he was impressive last season and I hope we can finish higher up the league this upcoming season”

@Leech27Tom tweeted: “welcome back bailey!! Hawaay the lads cracking signing!!!!!”