Sunderland Sign Jon McLaughlin
Sunderland AFC have today confirmed the signing of Scotland international goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin. The free agent has signed a two-year contract and becomes the second summer signing of Jack Ross, he arrives with a wealth of experience within the Football League and beyond.
Born in Edinburgh, the in-demand stopper enjoyed a standout 2017-18 campaign with Scottish Premiership outfit Heart of Midlothian, which led to his international debut in May 2018. McLaughlin rejected the opportunity to extend his stay at Tynecastle, opting to return to the Football League and join Ross’ squad.
McLaughlin, started his career at Harrogate Railway then Harrogate Town before joining Bradford City where he played 145 games for the Bantams in a six-year spell. During his time at Valley Parade, McLaughlin played a pivotal role as the Bantams won the Sky Bet League Two play-offs and reached the 2012 Capital One Cup Final at Wembley.
He joined Burton Albion in 2014 and was part of the side that earned back-to-back promotions, winning Sky Bet League Two in 2014-15 before finishing as runners-up one season later to reach the Sky Bet Championship. He was singled out for his efforts during the latter campaign and was named in the PFA League One Team of the Year for 2015-16.
Speaking about the signing Sunderland manager said, “Jon was in Scotland last season, but he’s spent the rest of his career in England and played in successful teams. He’s a really good signing for us because he will bring security and stability to that position as well as experience to the team.”