DENVER HUME has signed a new two-year contract with Sunderland.

Hume, who would have been able to leave as a free agent this summer had he not signed a new deal, has committed himself to the Stadium of Light until 2021.

The academy graduate has enjoyed a breakthrough 12 months, successfully establishing himself as a part of Jack Ross' first-team plans.

The County Durham 22-year-old has made ten appearances in all competitions during the current campaign, despite having to fight his way back into contention after a five-month spell on the sidelines.

After making his first-team comeback against Walsall in March, the 22-year-old went on to feature in the Checkatrade Trophy final at Wembley before starting in league victories over Accrington Stanley and Rochdale.

"I’m really happy to sign a new contract at the club," said Hume. "I have absolutely loved my time here and it’s been a massive part of my life for 12 years, so to have the opportunity to continue playing my football here is something I won’t take for granted.

"The manager and his staff have been brilliant with me and now everything’s signed, I can’t wait to kick on and play as many games as I can to help take the club back where it belongs."

Ross added: "Denver’s progression over the course of the campaign has impressed all of us, so I’m delighted that he has committed his future to the club.

"From day one of pre-season he has worked hard and bought into what we are trying to do, and after missing a sizeable amount of the season due to a frustrating injury, he deserves immense credit for fighting his way back into contention.

I believe he can play an important role for this football club moving forward."