Sunderland have completed the signing of Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt on loan for the remainder of the season. The Black Cats have seen off competition from Wigan Athletic - the club where Gelhardt began his career - and Blackburn Rovers, along with a late move from Middlesbrough, to land the 20-year-old who was at the Academy of Light this morning to undergo a medical and finalise the deal.
Gelhardt cannot play in Sunderland's FA Cup fourth round game at Fulham tomorrow as he is cup-tied, but he could make his debut against Millwall at the Stadium of Light in the Championship next weekend. Gelhardt said: "I know how big the club is and I'm really looking forward to meeting the lads and trying to help. I spoke with the head coach and the playing style seemed a perfect fit for me.
"I've watched Sunderland on the TV this season and seen some positive, attacking football and I can't wait to get involved."
