Joe Anderson signs two-year deal with Accrington Stanley after Barrow exit | OneFootball

Joe Anderson, 25, has signed a two-year deal with Accrington Stanley after Barrow’s relegation from League Two. The move gives the former Sunderland defender an immediate return to the EFL.

Accrington boss John Doolan said: "He understands levels, he has the drive to succeed, and he has played a number of games in the EFL." "He is a left-sided centre-half and I know he will take the opportunity with both hands."

Anderson only joined Barrow from Sunderland in January, making 14 appearances during the second half of the campaign.

The left-sided centre-back moved to Sunderland from Everton in January 2023 and made his senior debut the following month, a late substitute in a 1-1 Championship draw with Millwall.

He went on to make seven senior appearances for the Black Cats and spent 2023-24 on loan at Shrewsbury Town in League One, playing 30 times before returning to Wearside.

Anderson began in Liverpool’s youth system before joining Everton at the age of 15 in 2016. He signed his first professional contract with the Toffees in 2019 and later agreed an extension before his Sunderland switch.

The defender’s arrival continues a busy summer of movement for former Sunderland players, and he will look to re-establish himself in League Two after a short spell at Barrow.

Source: Sunderland Echo