• Premier League

Sunderland resume recruitment drive with Vaughan deal

ESPNsoccernet staff
July 8, 2011
David Vaughan has left Blackpool in favour of Premier League football © Getty Images
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Sunderland have completed the signing of Blackpool midfielder David Vaughan on a free transfer.

Vaughan, 28, had been offered a new contract by the Tangerines but turned them down in order to remain in the Premier League on a three-year deal at the Stadium of Light.

The Wales international was one of the stars of Blackpool's rollercoaster season in the top flight, starting 35 games. Vaughan, who began his career at Crewe Alexandra before spending a season at Real Sociedad under Chris Coleman, joined Blackpool in 2008 and spent three seasons with the club.

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce told the club's official website: "David was excellent throughout last season, including both games against us, so it's only natural that he caught the attention of a number of top clubs.

"We're delighted that he sees his future at Sunderland. His experience, grit and energy in midfield will be valuable assets to us and we're now looking forward to him joining up with the squad for pre-season training."

Last month Vaughan said of his decision to quit Blackpool: ''It was a very good offer and it was a tough decision, but I just want to stay in the Premier League and test myself at the highest level. 'It was unfortunate that we couldn't quite stay up last season and that was a big disappointment.

''My three years at Blackpool have been great and if it wasn't for Blackpool I may never have played in the Premier League, so I have a lot to thank the club and the manager (Ian Holloway) for. He has changed things around and I'll always look back on my time with fond memories.

''It's a tough decision to move because my family are settled in the area, but hopefully things will work out well wherever we end up.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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