CARL Winchester has completed a loan move to Shrewsbury Town with Sunderland retaining the option of recalling him in January.

The 29-year-old Northern Irishman played a big role in the club’s promotion last season but has not featured in the Championship this season. His only appearance has come in the club’s Carabao Cup defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.

The versatile Winchester is comfortable in defence, wing-back and in midfield. 

Since signing on a permanent deal from Forest Green Rovers in January 2021, he has made 67 appearances for the club and scored four goals.

Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman said: "Carl is at a stage of his career whereby he wants to be playing regular football and after concluding our incoming business, we agreed that it suited both parties for him to spend the remainder of the season on loan.

"He played an important part in our promotion last season and he will be missed by players and staff alike. We know Carl is a popular player amongst our fan base and like us, I’m sure our supporters appreciate the contribution he has made to the Club throughout his time at the Stadium of Light."