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Northern Ireland international Carl Winchester has joined League One club Sunderland from Forest Green Rovers on a two-and-a-half year deal.

The 27-year-old arrives at the Stadium of Light for an undisclosed fee.

"It's a massive club and once I heard about the interest, there was only one place I wanted to come," said the former Linfield and Oldham player.

"I'll give my all for the team and I'll go out there and wear my heart on my sleeve."

Winchester previously worked with Sunderland boss Lee Johnson when the pair were at Oldham Athletic.

"The manager believes in me and I believe in myself. I'm coming into my prime, so I'm hoping I can settle in well with the lads and kick on from there," Winchester added.

He started his career with Irish League side Linfield before signing for Oldham Athletic in 2010 and making over 100 league appearance for the Latics.

He joined Cheltenham Town in 2017 before signing for Gloucestershire rivals Forest Green Rovers and going on to feature over 100 times for the League Two side.

"After assessing our squad and establishing the profile of midfielder we wanted to bring in, we evaluated all the elements, inclusive of the data, and felt that Carl was the right player to add to our squad," said Johnson.

"He is a good player who is in the prime of his career, and his versatility means he can play in a number of positions, ensuring he will also bring depth to our squad.

"When he was a young player at Oldham, every top club wanted him, which shows the potential he has always had. He has represented some good clubs, but in terms of division, we believe he has been playing below his natural level."

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