Sunderland tie down 'crucial' midfielder to new deal

Sunderland continue to plan for the future by giving a new deal to captain Corry Evans.

Midfielder Corry Evans has signed a new deal with Sunderland, committing his future to the club until at least 2024.

The club were talking to Evans before his season-ending injury with the hope of extending his stay on Wearside, as exclusively revealed by Sunderland Nation in January.

A season-ending ACL injury against Middlesbrough complicated matters slightly, although it also reaffirmed Sunderland’s determination to do right by Evans, and they have now confirmed he has put pen to paper.

Evans has signed a one-year extension with a option for another 12 months after that too, so he will be able to work his way back from injury without fearing for his future at the club.

“I’m delighted to commit my future to the club,” Evans said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far.

“Unfortunately, I picked up the injury, but I’m focused on working hard and getting back to full fitness and helping the team as much as possible.

“I have a lot of responsibility being captain, and as a team we’ve progressed a lot – we have a bright future ahead and it’s something I want to be a part of.”

Meanwhile, sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said that getting Evans’ future sorted was a key target for the club, injury or no injury.

“Corry has been fantastic for us over the last 18 months – he is a crucial player who as captain had the honour of lifting the play-off final trophy,” Speakman said.

“Naturally, to suffer a significant injury is difficult to digest, but it’s testament to him as an individual that he is laser-focused on his ongoing rehabilitation.

“While he is unable to deliver on the pitch for a period, he remains a huge influence around the team and in club.”

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