Source: Team_Talk
New Black Cats deal for Bardsley
Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has signed a new three-and-a-half year contract which ties him to the Wearsiders until the summer of 2014.[LNB] The former Manchester United full-back's previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season but, having excelled in an unfamiliar left-sided role this season, he has convinced manager Steve Bruce he warrants an extension.[LNB]Bruce said: "Obviously there's a decision myself and the board have had to make and to be fair to Phil he has done very, very well.[LNB]"The last thing we wanted to do was to let Phil run into a Bosman situation.[LNB]"He has played his part, he is a valuable member of the squad and he has been rewarded for that."[LNB]Bardsley, who won his first Scotland cap against Spain last month, was pleased to commit his future to the Black Cats.[LNB]The 25-year-old told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to be able to stay.[LNB]"Talks have been ongoing over the last couple of weeks and I'm really pleased to be here for the next three and a half years.[LNB]"It's a club which I enjoy being at, I love living up here, the lads and everything about being here. Being part of the manager's plans is great and I'm enjoying my football."
