'Unique mindset' tributes as Anthony Patterson leaves Sunderland for Wrexham | OneFootball

Anthony Patterson has left Sunderland for Championship side Wrexham, prompting tributes from coaches and team-mates. The academy graduate was praised for his temperament as his long spell on Wearside ended.

According to Sunderland Echo, the 26-year-old has joined on an initial deal that could rise with performance. The move ends a 16-year association with his boyhood club.

Patterson helped secure two promotions and made more than 150 senior appearances. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Millwall, then captained Sunderland against Wrexham in pre-season in the USA.

Head of goalkeeping Neil Cutler lauded a unique mindset, saying Patterson plays without fear, delivers decisive saves and needs the stimulus of matchdays. He said that hunger underpinned Sunderland’s rise from League One to the Premier League, and he wished him well at Wrexham.

Assistant coach Alessandro Barcherini said working with him was a pleasure and a source of pride. Current number one Robin Roefs highlighted his shot-stopping, with Simon Moore and Melker Ellborg also praising his quality.

Director of football Florent Ghisolfi said it was the right time to move on and thanked him. Former team-mate Dan Neil, now at Rangers, highlighted two player of the match displays in two play-off finals and called him a fantastic person.

Source: Sunderland Echo

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