Joe Anderson joins Accrington Stanley on two-year deal after Barrow exit | OneFootball

Former Sunderland defender Joe Anderson, 25, has signed a two-year deal with Accrington Stanley after leaving relegated Barrow, securing an immediate return to the EFL.

According to Sunderland Echo, the left-sided centre-back made 14 appearances for Barrow after joining from Sunderland in January. Accrington head coach John Doolan believes Anderson understands the levels, has the drive to succeed and EFL game time, and says he will seize the opportunity.

He joined Sunderland from Everton in January 2023 and made his senior debut the following month as a late substitute in a 1-1 Championship draw at Millwall.

Anderson went on to make seven senior appearances for Sunderland, and spent 2023-24 on loan at Shrewsbury Town in League One, featuring 30 times before returning to Wearside.

He came through Liverpool’s academy before moving to Everton at 15 in 2016. He signed his first professional contract with the Toffees in 2019 and later agreed an extension.

The move offers Anderson a platform to re-establish himself in League Two after his short spell at Barrow, and continues a busy summer of change for former Sunderland players.

Source: Sunderland Echo