Blackburn seal Gray deal

Gray played over 400 games for Sunderland

Blackburn Rovers have completed the signing of Sunderland defender Michael Gray on a two-and-a-half year contract.

The 29-year-old left-back has joined the Premiership strugglers on a free transfer to boost their fight against relegation.

"It is very exciting for me, not only to be joining a big club like Blackburn but also to be back in the Premiership," said Gray.

"I'm really delighted with the move," he told Blackburn's official website.

Rovers boss Graeme Souness was pleased to be able sign Gray to bolster his left-sided options.

"We have followed Michael with interest for some time and one of the big plusses is his ability to play in all positions down the left," said Souness.

We wish Michael all the best for the future Sunderland chairman Bob Murray

"He has a good pedigree and we are pleased to welcome him aboard."

Gray - who won three caps for England - was deemed surplus to requirements at the Stadium of Light, with manager Mick McCarthy keen to lower the club's wage bill.

The Black Cats handed Sunderland-born Gray a free transfer in recognition to the club.

He'll be a good signing as he'll slot in nicely at left back and push Gresko out of the team From Brian O'Leary Have your say on 606

"We wish Michael all the best for the future," chairman Bob Murray told Sunderland's website.

"He has been a loyal servant of this club for many years and this move gives him the opportunity to kick-start his career with a new challenge."

Gray, who joined Sunderland as a trainee in 1990 after being released by Manchester United, spent three months on loan at Celtic earlier this season, making 10 appearances for Martin O'Neill's side.

He could make his Blackburn debut at home to Chelsea on Sunday.