Sunderland confirm defensive departure as wait for season clarity goes on

The former Ipswich Town defender and New Zealand international joined the club in February after January signing Bailey Wright suffered a serious knee injury.

Smith was included in two subsequent matchday squads, but did not make a competitive appearance before the postponement of League One fixtures.

The resumption of the campaign remains in significant doubt, and clubs are now unlikely to vote on the matter until the week of June 8th.

A narrow majority is expected to vote for a curtailment, but even if the campaign does resume, Wright is expected to be fit again and available if an extension was agreed with Bristol City.

Aside from Smith, there are ten Sunderland players who will see their contracts expire in the coming month.

Jon McLaughlin, Alim Ozturk, Tom Flanagan, Joel Lynch, Josh Scowen, Ethan Robson, Chris Maguire, Kyle Lafferty and Duncan Watmore are all due to leave the club as things stand.

The Black Cats also have Antoine Semenyo and Declan John on loan.

If the season does resume, they will have to agree extensions to ensure their availability.

A club statement said: “Sunderland AFC can confirm that Tommy Smith has left the club following the expiration of his contract.

“The New Zealand international moved to the Stadium of Light in February 2020 on a short-term deal.

“Everyone at SAFC would like to wish Tommy the very best for the future.”