Sunderland today completed their second senior signing of the summer. Following the arrival of Conor McLaughlin on Monday, goalkeeper Lee Burge has signed. Burge arrives on a free transfer after his contract at Coventry City expired.
Sunderland Complete Lee Burge Deal
Rubber stamped.?#SAFC pic.twitter.com/xR4zJidO32
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) 3 July 2019
Career So Far
26-year-old Burge had been Coventry’s number one for the past two seasons. In total, he made 160 appearances for the Sky Blues. Middlesbrough, Millwall and Hull City were also reportedly interested; however, Sunderland acted swiftly to sign the keeper.
Burge joined Coventry as a youngster and rose through the ranks. Once he became the clubs number one goalkeeper, helped them win the Checkatrade Trophy and promotion from League Two. He was also named in the League Two Team of the Season. On City’s return to League One, Burge impressed with his solid performances which attracted the interest of several clubs.
Keeper Required After McLaughlin Back-Ups Leave
Sunderland manager Jack Ross had just one senior goalkeeper in Jon McLaughlin until today. Robbin Ruiter, who was number two last season joined PSV Eindhoven while Max Stryjek moved to National League side Eastleigh.
McLaughlin was in outstanding form last season; however, Jack Ross needed back-up and competition for his number one. In Burge, the Black Cats have a very capable goalkeeper with plenty of experience at League One Level.
McLaughlin Staying
Scottish international McLaughlin has been subject to speculation linking him with a move away from the club. However, owner Stewart Donald insists McLaughlin is going nowhere.
“According to rumours we have already lost out on 86 transfer targets, we won’t sign a player all pre-season. Now we have rumours about these two (McLaughlin and McGeady),” Donald tweeted. Modern football is just full of people making up rubbish, trying to look like they are ITK. We are not trying to get rid. They are staying.”
Main Photo
