The Chronicle journalist James Hunter has been left 'pleased' by the latest contract news he has seen from Sunderland.

The Lowdown: Gooch deal

As per the official website of the Stadium of Light outfit, Lynden Gooch has now signed a new two-year contract that will now keep him on Wearside until 2024, after it was due to expire this summer.

He is the longest-serving player at the club, and has now linked up with the rest of the squad for pre-season training.

The Latest: Hunter 'pleased'

Taking to Twitter, Hunter was left 'pleased' by the news of Gooch's contract, claiming that it is 'excellent' that he has signed on for another two years:

"New two-year deal for @LyndenGooch is excellent news. I’m pleased he’s staying - quality player and a top man, too."

The Verdict: Relief

It will certainly come as a relief to the Black Cats supporters that Gooch has signed a new deal, especially given that there was reported interest from some of their Championship rivals for his signature.

The United States international was a mainstay in the side last term under Alex Neil, making six assists, which helped SAFC finally win promotion back up to the Championship from League One.

Nonetheless, he has shown his loyalty to the club over some of their most difficult years, and so it was only right that he is rewarded with a new deal for his efforts.