JOE Anderson says he is "over the moon" to have joined Sunderland and is relishing the opportunity to play for Tony Mowbray.

The 21-year-old joins from Everton and has signed a three-and-a-half year deal at the Stadium of Light, with Sunderland having the option of a further year.

Anderson, a centre-half who can also play in a left-sided role, says he was sold on the Sunderland move the minute he learnt of interest from Wearside, but was even further buoyed after speaking to head coach Mowbray.

He told the club website: “I’m over the moon to make the move, the minute the club were interested I wanted to come here. I met the head coach and really liked what he had to say, and the fact he was also a centre back means I’ll have a lot to learn from him. It’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to and I can’t wait to get started.”

Delighted Mowbray added: "Joe fits the profile of player we want to keep adding to the club and we look forward to supporting his development in a senior environment. The talent and potential is there and although he may need time to develop physically in the next weeks and months, he will add immediate competition and depth to our squad.

"A left-footed, left-sided central defender, which is a rarity, he can distribute the ball well from the back and connect defence with midfield – he is going to be a real long-term asset for the club.”

Anderson started his young career at Liverpool before moving to Everton when he was 15. He captained and made 62 appearance for Everton's Under-23s.

The defender was training with his new teammates for the first time on Tuesday morning.