Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Chronicle Live
Chronicle Live
Sport
Craig Johns

Sunderland fans angry and worried as Jon McLaughlin leaves for Rangers

Sunderland fans have reacted with both anger and concern as number one goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin departed the club for Rangers.

The Scotland international opted against signing a new contract with the Black Cats, moving to the Scottish giants on a free transfer instead.

The news has angered fans, with McLaughlin one of the most consistent performers in the past two seasons and just 12 months ago owner Stewart Donald claimed they wouldn't sell him for anything less than £5m. But having failed to offer him an acceptable deal, they have instead lost the 32-year-old for nothing, which has angered many supporters.

There's also concern for supporters, with the club losing their first-choice shot-stopper.

In McLaughlin's absence, they have Lee Burge, who proved capable when called upon last season, while exciting young prospect Anthony Patterson has also signed a contract extension. But manager Phil Parkinson is expected to look for another goalkeeper for competition.

That has many supporters concerned, however, with a lack of trust in the club's recruitment team and finances to realistically foresee the club signing a better option that McLaughlin.

Below is a round-up of Sunderland fans reacting after news of McLaughlin's departure to Rangers was announced.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.