Sunderland picked up a stunning bargain in Jon McLaughlin signing

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This summer saw plenty of changes at Sunderland. The club were coming off the back of a disastrous season in the Championship, ultimately ending in relegation to League One. One area that was a massive area of concern for Sunderland last season was between the sticks.

Sunderland gave chances to the trio of Jason Steele, Robbin Ruiter and Lee Camp, all three new signings after the £25 million departure of Jordan Pickford to Everton. None of them managed to fill the void for the Black Cats.

This summer, Camp’s loan deal ended and Steele headed to Brighton. Sunderland were not about to entrust Ruiter with the first-team role once again. Instead, they snapped up the unassuming Scottish stopper Jon McLaughlin. The 31-year-old’s contract at Hearts had come to an end and Sunderland boss Jack Ross swooped to sign his countryman.

A former Bradford and Burton Albion goalkeeper he was something of an underwhelming but competent signing for Sunderland fans.

However, after 15 games, that is no longer the opinion. Instead, Sunderland fans adore him. McLaughlin has been fantastic for his new team. Composed and solid, he is the sort of goalkeeper needed at this level.

His performance against Doncaster Rovers this week might be one of his best yet for his new club and Sunderland fans are over the moon with their newbie’s impact.

If he keeps up this form, then Sunderland will no doubt be in the promotion mix come the end of the season.