New man Loovens spotlighted

Sunderland have snapped up veteran defender Glenn Loovens on a two-year contract.

Mark Donnelly looks a the career of the 34-yearold.

The experienced centre-back has certainly enjoyed a varied career, having plied in his trade in the Netherlands, Spain, Scotland and England.

Loovens began his career at Feyenoord, enjoying several loan spells away from the club as he sought regular football.

His last loan spell saw him join Cardiff City and he impressed as his authoritative performances atthebackdefiedhisyoung years.

A permanent move to the Bluebirds was completed in 2006 and Loovens went on to make over 100 appearances for Cardiff, becoming a key component of the side that regularly chased promotion from the Championship.

Such form inevitably attracted interest, and he eventually joined Celtic in a £2m deal in 2008.

During his four-year spell at Parkhead, Loovens won the title once, plus both domestic cups, and was also handed two senior caps for Holland.

After falling out of favour, he was allowed to leave for Real Zaragoza before joining Sheffield Wednesday in 2013.

He became a cult hero at the Owls after being handed the captain’s armband – with his no-nonsense defending pleasing fans.

He was released in the summer, having made 23 appearances last season.

A leader on and off the field, his experience could be vital for some of Sunderland’s youngsters.

While he has never played in League One, the centre back has vast experience of a higher level which should stand him in good stead.

He may not be as quick as he once was, but Loovens’ nous and defensive know-how makes him an extremely effective centre back.

Strong, uncompromising and tidy in possession, the 34-year-old has all the assets necessary for a modern day centre back.

His strength in the air is a big asset too, although he has only managed 13 goals in his senior career.