BISHOP GONE

Sunderland have announced the permanent departure of Nathan Bishop. He has joined newly promoted League One side AFC Wimbledon.

Bishop joined us in 2023, merely as a backup option and he wasn't really called upon. He spent last season out on loan with Mike Dodds' Wycombe Wanderers.

It always looked unlikely that he would make a push for a starting spot. Anthony Patterson had already cemented the first team spot, and we had brought in Simon Moore as well with other younger keepers like Matty Young looking more promising.

Kristjaan Speakman said: “Nathan has been an outstanding professional throughout his time at Sunderland AFC, playing an important role within the squad and the dressing room. Although injuries disrupted his playing time whilst on loan last season, he ended the campaign strongly. This is a step he’s ready to take and his professionalism and work ethic will ensure he has an excellent platform to build from at AFC Wimbledon. We all wish him well.”