Sunderland confirm Kyle Lafferty departure

Sunderland have confirmed that Northern Ireland International Kyle Lafferty has left the club on the expiration of his contract.

Lafferty signed for the Black Cats in January on a short term deal and impressed fans at the Stadium of Light in his short spell at the club. 

He was initially brought in to provide cover and competition for Charlie Wyke and Will Grigg. 

The 32 year old went on to score two goals for the Wearsiders in 11 appearances both coming against Gillingham on his first start for the club on the 7th March. 

A club statement read: “Sunderland AFC can confirm that Kyle Lafferty has left the club."

After signing a short-term deal at the Stadium of Light in January, the 32-year-old striker went on to score two goals in 11 appearances for the Lads.

“Everyone at SAFC would like to wish Kyle the best of luck for the future."

Lafferty becomes the second player to depart the Stadium of Light this summer as New Zealand defender Tommy Smith departed a fortnight ago after not making a single appearance for Phil Parkinson's side. 

He had been playing for Sarpsborg before moving to Sunderland, but was out of contract when the season in Norway ended in November.

Lafferty is one of 11 Sunderland first-teamers who are out of contract this summer and whose futures are set to be decided over the next fortnight with fellow Northern Ireland International Tom Flanagan amongst that group.