Craig Samson can’t wait to get started at Sunderland as he waves farewell to his playing career.
The 34-year-old, who joins the club from Scottish Premier League side St Mirren, had made 17 appearances for the Buddies this season.
But following the departure of Jimmy Walker to Ipswich Town earlier this month, Samson has linked up back with Ross as he calls time on his playing career to become Sunderland’s new goalkeeping coach.
Speaking about the move, Samson said: “It was a lot to do with the manager to be honest. We spoke about it last week and he said he’d like me to come down but he knew it was a big decision because I was playing.
“I just thought it was something I really wanted to do, and it was an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up. I am 34 and not going to play forever.
“Yes, I was playing in the Premier League in Scotland so people might think it is a strange decision, but I have got a family and I had to think about the long-term aspects.”
He continued: “The size of this football club and where the manager believes he can take it is something I wanted to be a part of.”
