Lee Congerton named Sunderland sporting director

Sunderland have appointed Lee Congerton as the club's new sporting director.

Congerton arrives at the Stadium of Light having left his role as technical director at Bundesliga side Hamburger SV.

"I'm delighted to join Sunderland AFC and would like to thank the board and owner for this great opportunity," he told the club's official website.

"Working alongside Gus [Poyet] and his team was one of the influential factors in me joining the club and something that I am very much looking forward to."

Congerton replaces Roberto De Fanti, who was sacked by the Black Cats in January.