Originally Posted by Sir Alex
"John has been an outstanding servant to the club, since he broke into the first team almost a decade ago,"
"His versatility, calmness under pressure and his commitment to the cause at United means that fans will remember him with great affection.
"John has won so many medals – and has deserved every one of them. He epitomises our club’s approach as a team. After so many years of service to United, I’m pleased that John has found a career opportunity which will deliver the number of games he deserves. We wish John every success in his new life.
Steve Bruce is a manager that knows how to blend youth and experience and I’m sure he has John earmarked for a senior role in trying to take Sunderland on from their finish last season."