Dramatic U-turn sees Republic of Ireland defender join growing contingent at Sunderland

The Irish connection is growing in Tyne-Wear.

Ireland players have a habit of sticking together in England, as we have seen the increasing band of internationals congregating at Sean Dyche's Burnley, well after the deadline day signing of defender Marc Wilson, Sunderland are joining the trend. Wilson signed for the Black Cats on a permanent deal and he will join up with fellow Irish internationals John O’Shea, Darron Gibson and Aiden McGeady at the Stadium of Light. The Aghagallon native's time at previous club Bournemouth was short-lived, having made just three appearances for the Cherries, none of which were in the league. https://twitter.com/SunderlandAFC/status/903380719661146112 Wilson is an experienced defender, with over 180 Premier League appearances to his name, the majority of which were at Stoke, and his signing represents a valuable acquisition for Sunderland boss Simon Grayson, as he attempts to bring them back to the Premier League. Wilson's signing was announced alongside Sunderland's incoming deadline duo of Callum McManamam and Jonny Williams. https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/903380628795621376 The 30-year-old spent the final half of last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, but will now drop down to the Championship after signing with Sunderland. It had been reported that Wilson was undergoing a deadline day medical at Hull, but that deal fell through and Sunderland proved to be his destination. https://twitter.com/HullCityNew1904/status/903266676430524417 https://twitter.com/GraemeBailey/status/903243021306736641 https://twitter.com/joe_1901/status/903248228048666626