Patterson rejoins the County set
SUNDERLAND have allowed academy goalkeeper Anthony Patterson to rejoin National League side Notts County on loan.
Under-23 midfielder Sam Wilding is also on the move, joining National League North side Leamington on loan.
Patterson spent almost two months on loan with County earlier in the season and made 16 appearances for the Magpies.
He was recalled in November following an injury to Lee Burge which left Sunderland short of cover for first-choice shotstopper Thorben Hoffmann.
Sunderland boss Lee Johnson said at the time there was a possibility of the 21-year-old rejoining County on loan further down the line.
With Burge now fit again, that has come to pass with Patterson due to spend the remainder of the season at Meadow Lane.
He will be available for Notts County’s home game against ex-Sunderland boss Phil Parkinson’s Wrexham tomorrow.
Wilding has not made a senior appearance for Sunderland this season but he has been a regular starter in the under-23 side.
He has joined the Brakes on a short-term deal which runs until February 5.
Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said: “Anthony was doing extremely well at Meadow Lane before injuries dictated he needed to be recalled but we retained an open dialogue with Notts County and they have been fully supportive throughout this process.
“Although there were alternative moves on the table, we believe this remains the best fit to ensure Anthony’s development continues.
“Likewise, we were conscious about the need for Sam to gain more minutes and experience in a competitive senior environment, so this is an excellent opportunity for him to progress.
Notts County boss Ian Burchnall is delighted to have Patterson back and said: “Everyone could see Anthony’s quality in the short time he spent with us.
“Having him back is a huge boost as it means we now have two excellent senior goalkeepers competing with each other for their place in the team.
“We have maintained close dialogue with Sunderland throughout and we would like to say a big thank you to them for trusting us with Patto’s continued development.”