Lee Johnson says Ollie Younger has a chance to kick-start his career and make an immediate impact in League One following the defender's move to Doncaster Rovers.
The 22-year-old centre-back - whose contract with Sunderland was due to expire in the summer - has signed an 18-month deal with the South Yorkshire club and could make his debut for his new club at MK Dons on Saturday as basement side Rovers battle relegation.
Johnson gave Younger his league debut back in March, but the former Burnley academy man has been restricted to just five appearances in cup competitions this season although he has regularly been named on the subs' bench in the league.
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"I could have kept Ollie here, but to do that would have been selfish of me," said Johnson.
"It wouldn't have been right for the football club, or for Ollie.
"I love Ollie, I love the way he trains, I think he brings a dynamic and an honesty to training, and I really wish him the best of luck.
"I'll always follow him and I'll always be there for him if he ever needs anything.
"It's great for him to kick-start his career in League One at a really good club where he will be able to compete straightaway for a place.
"I'm sad to see him go because players like that, I have a huge amount of admiration for on a personal level."
For his part, Younger expressed his thanks to Sunderland on social media as he departed.
He said: "Delighted to have signed for @drfc_official really looking forward to a new chapter and getting started!
"Thankyou to @SunderlandAFC for past year and a half or so, loved my time there met some great people and made some great memories, all the best for the future."
Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman added: "Ollie has really progressed over the last 18 months, but not populated the starting eleven enough due to the competition between our senior players.
"We believe that it's important he continues his development to build a career and Doncaster represents a fantastic opportunity for him.
"Whilst the selfish approach would be to retain him, we need to support our young players with the right decisions at the right time.
"He's a great kid and we wish him well."
Younger came through the ranks at Turf Moor and spent a spell at League of Ireland side St Patrick's in early 2020.
He joined Sunderland in September 2020, and has played much of his football for the U23s.
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