BRIDCUTT STAYING FOR THE SEASON!

BRIDCUTT STAYING FOR THE SEASON!

Midfielder finalises loan switch from Sunderland to remain at Elland Road...

We are delighted to confirm that midfielder Liam Bridcutt has extended his loan stay at Leeds United from Sunderland for the remainder of the season.

Bridcutt, who initially arrived on an emergency loan deal from the Black Cats in the final week of November, has made a big impression at Elland Road in his eight United appearances so far.

The 26-year-old has been ever-present in the side since making the switch from the Stadium of Light, playing a key role as the side climbed up the Championship table during an impressive seven-game unbeaten run.

Bridcutt becomes the club’s first signing of the January transfer window and is eligible to feature in Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Rotherham United after Leeds sought permission from Sunderland.

Head coach Steve Evans said: “I’m really pleased to have my number one target on board at this early stage of the window.

“I like players who prove a point and Liam has done exactly that since he first arrived. He’s made a big impression here and has become a fans’ favourite in a short space of time.

“Liam has consistently produced performances of an extremely high standard for us, which is all the more impressive when you consider he hadn’t played any league football this season prior to joining.

“He’s fitted into the group seamlessly and getting him signed up again comes as very positive news for us to start the New Year with.

“We’ve got him until the end of the season but if he continues the way he has been playing, then it puts us in a good position to speak to Sunderland about keeping him in the summer.”

Following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with MK Dons, the final game of Bridcutt’s initial emergency loan period, the midfielder made it clear he was hoping to remain at the club after a rewarding start to life at Elland Road.

“It’s been perfect for me so far,” he said. “The manager has been brilliant with me, he’s given me a great opportunity to come here and play. The lads have also been brilliant in welcoming me in.

“I just wanted to come in and play football and show what I can do.

“I’m happy and you can see in the way that I’m playing that I’m back to my normal self.

“The manager has shown me some great respect and he’s given me some great opportunities to come in and do what I love doing.”

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