Sunderland have allowed young defender Patrick Almond to join National League North side Blyth Spartans on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 19-year-old centre-back has linked up with Blyth on a youth loan, meaning he can be recalled if necessary at any time after completing the first 28 days of his stay.
Almond has been a regular for Mike Dodds' U23 side this season, making 12 Premier League 2 appearances.
He made his senior debut for the Black Cats in October, playing the full 90 minutes as Sunderland beat Manchester United U21 in the EFl Trophy at the Stadium of Light.
He was also an unused substitute in the EFL Trophy games against Lincoln City and Oldham Athletic.
Lee Johnson said recently that Sunderland would be allowing some of their younger players to leave on loan during the January transfer window to gain first-team experience elsewhere.
Since Johnson made those comments, striker Will Harris has joined League Two Barrow, midfielder Stephen Wearne has joined National League side Torquay United - managed by Johnson's father Gary - while goalkeeper Jack McIntyre has joined Northern Premier League side Radcliffe, and now Almond has also departed.
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