Former Sheffield Wednesday captain Glenn Loovens joins Sunderland

The Dutch defender, released by Sheffield Wednesday at the end of last season, has signed a two-year contract.

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Loovens becomes the Black Cats seventh summer signing, joining Tom Flanagan, Chris Maguire, Jon McLaughlin, Alim Ozturk, Reece James and Dylan McGeouch on Wearside.

“I’ve been training on my own and it’s not the best thing as a pre-season so I can’t wait to get on the pitch and get involved,” Loovens told Sunderland's official website.

“They phoned me a couple of weeks ago through my agent and he’s been working on it ever since. I was on holiday in Italy when I got the final phone call on Thursday.”

It means Loovens, who won two caps for the Netherlands, is set for an early reunion with the Owls. Jos Luhukay's side are due to take on the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light in the Carabao Cup first round next month.

“I’ve played here before so I know the support is amazing,” he said. “The more (fans) the merrier!

“When another door closes one opens again so I’m here to do my best for Sunderland.

“I will fit in quickly.”

Loovens spent four and a half years at Hillsborough, making 150 appearances. His experience and leadership as the club captain was invaluable as the Owls turned themselves into promotion contenders.

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But injuries and a loss of form limited the 34-year-old, who began his career at leading Dutch side Feyenoord, to just 23 appearances last season.

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