Sunderland midfielder Jay Matete has joined League One leaders Plymouth Argyle on loan until the end of the season.
Matete arrived at the Stadium of Light one year ago from Fleetwood Town and has made nine appearances for the Black Cats across all competitions this term.
The youngster also played 16 times for Sunderland as he helped guide them to promotion into the Championship via the League One play-offs last term.
He is expected to be available for selection when the Pilgrims travel to Bolton Wanderers tomorrow afternoon. The 21-year-old has made just one start for Sunderland in the Championship this season, and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman believes Plymouth can offer the 'right environment' for his development.
READ MORE: Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray outlines extent of Alex Pritchard's latest injury
Speakman said: "Jay made an immediate and positive impact last season and he was a huge part of our promotion. He’s worked tirelessly during the current campaign but found limited opportunities, so it’s only right for his development that we seek an option to get him more playing time in the right environment.
"Plymouth represents a great opportunity for Jay, as he joins a team in great form where the demands and expectations are high. We feel this best places him for a return to SAFC in the summer and we wish him well at Home Park.”
Home Park has been a prime location for loan players this season, with Finn Azaz, Bali Mumba, Morgan Whittaker and Sam Cosgrove all flourishing under Steven Schumacher.
As well as boasting League One experience at Sunderland, Matete also amassed 41 appearances and two goals during his spell at Fleetwood.
READ NEXT:
- Sunderland 'open to' Ellis Simms returning to Wearside later in the transfer window
- Kristjaan Speakman sets out Sunderland's stance on Ross Stewart's contract situation
- Tony Mowbray says Sunderland in talks with several clubs over striker targets
- Sunderland considering loan deals to give fringe first-teamers gametime
- Sunderland 15-year-old Chris Rigg ready for debut as Tony Mowbray makes 'impressive' statement
