Sunderland Football Club

• Nickname:Black Cats
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Paolo Di Canio

• Ground:Stadium of light
• Capacity:48353

Keane seals Gordon coup

09 Aug 2007 - 07:22:08

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Sunderland have completed a British record deal for a goalkeeper by signing Hearts' Scotland international Craig Gordon for a fee that could eventually reach £9million.

The 24-year-old moves to the Stadium of Light for an initial £7million, after the Black Cats beat off competition from Aston Villa and Manchester City for his signature.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane told his club's official website: "He's a top goalkeeper and he will be a massive asset for us over the next few years.

"We've already got two very good goalkeepers and Craig is a big signing for Sunderland."

Gordon, who has won 23 caps for his country, had been with the Jambos for nine years, making well over 150 first-team appearances, but felt the time was right for a new challenge.

He told Hearts' official club website: "I could not turn down a chance to play in the English Premier League.

"It is a massive opportunity to me. I have always said I wanted to try the Premier League at some point."