Cattermole bids farewell to Black Cats

Lee Cattermole has left Sunderland after a decade at the club.

The combative midfielder played more than 250 games for the Black Cats - scoring 10 goals and picking up an impressive tally of 93 yellow cards.

Cattermole, 31, who has left the Stadium of Light with immediate effect, and stated that it is the 'right time to find a new challenge'.

“Sunderland is a special club and this decision has not been easy," he said in a statement on the club website.

"The football club, over my 10 years, has had some fantastic managers, staff and players and I have been lucky to be part of that.

"I would like to say a big thank you to Jack Ross and his staff, and I wish him and the current squad all the best for the coming season. There are some exciting young players at the club and I will be looking forward to seeing them progress.”

Rumours have circled about Cattermole potentially reuniting with former boss Steve Bruce at Sheffield Wednesday, but the timing of his departure has been a surprise for many, as his contract - which was mutually terminated to suit both parties - had 12 months left to run.

However, Cattermole was reportedly earning around £40,000-per-week at Sunderland, who are obliged to cut their wage bill this summer in line with EFL financial fair play regulations. In a fiscal sense, therefore, letting Cattermole go will help the Black Cats balance the books. 

"Lee has been a great servant for SAFC and we wish to place on record our thanks for his dedication for the past 10 years and we wish him the very best in the future," a club spokeswoman added. 

👏 Thank you, Catts#SAFChttps://t.co/4H3tHlAQQd

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) July 1, 2019