news-engine

Florent Ghisolfi pays tribute to Anthony Patterson as 16-year Sunderland association officially ends The Sunderland goalkeeper has completed his permanent move to Wrexham Anthony Patterson has completed his permanent move to Championship side Wrexham. The move brings an end to Patterson’s 16-year association with the club, during which he was a key part in two promotions and made over 150 appearances for the club. Having spent the second half of last season on loan at Millwall, he has made the switch to Wrexham for an initial fee of £8 million. It’s understood that the move could bank Sunderland further funds depending on performance. Patterson made one final appearance for his boyhood club during the pre-season trip of the USA, wearing the captain’s armband against his future employers in Philadelphia. In a statement, director of football Florent Ghisolfi said it was the right time for 26-year-old for to move on but hailed his contribution to the club. Ghisolfi added that Patterson would ‘always have a special place’ at the Stadium of Light. “Patto has a special connection with Sunderland,” Ghilsolfi said. “He joined the Academy at the age of 10, came through every stage of the Club and played an important role in some very special moments in our recent history. “He has always represented Sunderland with professionalism and humility, and everyone at the club should be proud of his journey. This is now the right moment for Patto to start a new chapter in his career. We thank him sincerely for everything he has given to Sunderland and wish him and his family every success at Wrexham. He will always have a special place here.” Patterson has signed a four-year contract at Wrexham. The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel. Speaking to Wrexham’s club media, Patterson outlined his ambition to play in the top tier with his new club. He said: “Wrexham really suits me in terms of what I want to do in my career, so it feels like a perfect fit. “I've seen the journey that the club's been on and it's really exciting to now be part of it. I want to play in the Premier League with Wrexham, and I think everything is in place and ready for the club to do that. I’m really looking forward to playing in front of our fans, pushing up the league, and getting this football club to where it deserves to be.” Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson added: “We’re delighted to welcome Anthony to the football club. “He's a young keeper, but with a lot of experience at Championship level, and we look forward to working with him.” Your next Sunderland read: What Anthony Patterson's imminent sale means for Sunderland's SCR position explained