Bardsley agrees new deal

Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has agreed a new deal at the Stadium of Light.

Bardsley’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season and it was feared he could leave on a free transfer next summer.

A number of clubs, including Newcastle, Stoke, Blackburn and West Brom were all thought to be waiting in the wings to sign Bardsley if he became available.

However, Sunderland have moved to offer the former Manchester United man fresh terms to keep him on Wearside

Bardsley has impressed in recent weeks after winning his place in Steve Bruce’s side in a left-back role and his form was rewarded with a call-up to the Scotland squad for last month’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Spain.

The 25-year-old has agreed terms on a new three-and-a-half year extension and he is expected to put pen-to-paper on the contract early next week.