Former Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has donated his entire salary to charity after signing for Stockport County until the end of the season in what he describes as "a dream signing".
The 37-year-old, who has also enjoyed spells at Manchester United, Stoke City and Burnley across his 21 years as a professional, has said all his wages earned at the club will be going to Stockport's community trust.
Bardsley made exactly 200 appearances for the Black Cats between 2008 and 2014, scoring seven goals and providing nine assists during his time at the Stadium of Light.
READ MORE: Kyril Louis-Dreyfus explains Sunderland's transfer strategy going into the January window
After being released by Burnley in the summer, Bardsley trained with the club before deciding to sign with them. In a statement, he said:
"This is a dream signing. Over the last couple of months, I’ve had the honour of training with the club as I return from injury. During this time, I’ve been welcomed in as part of the team and made to feel at home.
"Having the opportunity to sign for the club and to give back to the community trust at the same time feels like the perfect way for me to make my return to football.
"County is a club with a clear mission and with real opportunity ahead of it, both within the league and within the local community. It’s this mission which makes County incredibly exciting to be involved with."
The Stockport County Community Trust provides an extensive programme of work in the local area, including education through sport, volunteering and promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
Manager Dave Challinor said that his squad will value Bardsley's input as a veteran of the Premier League as he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from the highest level down to the Hatters who are 13th in League Two.
"Phil has had an incredibly successful career at the very top of the football pyramid. His skill, experience and tenacity will be a huge asset to the club as we continue our campaign, and we look forward to welcoming him into the side."
READ NEXT:
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus says Sunderland are improving all the time - but still have a long way to go
Sunderland's 'protect mode' malfunctioned against West Brom on a night when lessons must be learned
Ross Stewart could still make Sunderland's weekend trip to Hull City
Tony Mowbray issues optimistic Ross Stewart return update after Sunderland's defeat to West Brom
Sunderland player ratings as Luke O'Nien impresses on a night when most fell short vs West Brom
