Gillingham FC clinch the signature of former Sunderland defender John Egan on a two year contract

Gillingham have bolstered their defensive options with the signing of former Sunderland player John Egan on a two year contract.The Republic of Ireland U21 International signs on a free transfer having been released by the Premiership club at the end of last season.Egan never made a first team appearance while at the Stadium of Light but he has had enjoyed loan spells at Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and Bradford.While at Valley Parade in 2012 he suffered a broken leg which cut his spell short, returning to Sunderland where he spent a prolonged spell on the sidelines.However last season, in search of first team football, he went out on loan to Southend and made 15 appearances for the Seasiders, scoring one goal against Scunthorpe in a 2-2 draw in March.He has represented his country at three different age groups (U17, U19 & U21), making 18 appearances in total - six of which for the Under-21 side.He joins the club on the same day as Luke Norris - the former Brentford striker also signing a two year deal.