Let’s hope Sunderland aren’t made to regret this; U23 man leaves to sign pre-contract elsewhere

Sunderland academy product Tom Beadling has signed a pre-contract with Dunfermline Athletic, the club he spent the latter part of last season on loan with in order to find first team football.

The U23 captain - who, at a young age, was highly-tipped for big things on Wearside - has not signed an extension of his current deal with the club and has instead chosen to commit his future to the Scottish Championship side, who are managed by former Sunderland winger Allan Johnston.

Beadling has excelled during his spell with the Pars and has moved into a role as a central midfielder, putting in a series of eye-catching performances for his side as they looked to push on towards the play-off places near the end of the season.

Beadling’s Sunderland contract expires this summer, and the uncertainty surrounding his future is thought to have unsettled the 22-year old, who just wanted to knuckle down and reach a decision on his immediate future as a first team footballer.

Dunfermline will be pleased to have finally tied down Beadling, especially since it’s believed that he also received interest from a host of Scottish Premiership clubs that had been impressed by his performances during his initial stint with the Pars.

Good luck Tom - let’s hope you finally kick on and succeed now that you’re going to be given a chance to impress in senior football!