Liam Bridcutt seals permanent move to Leeds United from Sunderland

Leeds United have announced the permanent signing of Liam Bridcutt from Sunderland on a two-year deal.

The 27-year-old spent last season on loan at Elland Road and made it clear that he wanted to move to the Championship club on a full-time basis.

Now, Leeds have confirmed that Bridcutt, who made 27 appearances in all competitions in the 2015-16 campaign, has joined the club for an undisclosed fee.

"It feels good to be back," Bridcutt told the club's official website. "It's been a long time coming but now I'm really glad to be here and I'm just looking forward to playing football again. I enjoyed myself here last season. The boys made feel very welcome and it's a club I've enjoyed playing for.

"I was very happy here and there was a persistence from Leeds this summer which made me feel wanted, and that's always a good thing. The fans were also a key aspect of me signing here again. They were brilliant with me last year - I felt like I connected with Leeds as soon as I came here and it was a team I wanted to play for.

"Every time I run out for Leeds I'll give 110% and I'll aim to get better each week. I just can't wait to get back out onto the pitch."

Manager Garry Monk added: "I'm very pleased to have Liam on board. When I first came into the club, I analysed all the games from last season and Liam contributed really well.

"I'm very happy to get the deal done. Liam brings a wealth of experience, a good level of quality to the group and something that we need. He has that bit of leadership and personality that will help the group. I'm very pleased to have him through the door - I know what he's capable of."

Bridcutt, who spent two years at Sunderland, will wear the number 26 shirt.