Mick McCarthy has been given the all clear to strengthen his Sunderland squad as Jeff Whitley signed and Gary Breen prepared to undergo a medical. Former Manchester City midfielder Whitley, released at the end of last season, has agreed an 11-month deal, while Republic of Ireland international Breen is expected to sign within the next 48 hours provided he gets the all-clear from medical staff.
McCarthy's double swoop comes after a frustrating summer during which he has seen other targets snapped up by competitors while he has waited for some of his highest earners to be offloaded before making his move.
Filed by Johnny Proby