George McCartney will have a brief spell at Elland Road

Sunderland defender George McCartney has moved to Leeds United on a one-month loan deal.

The 29-year-old Northern Ireland international, who has won 34 caps, has struggled to command a first-team place at the Stadium of Light this season.

Leeds manager Simon Grayson told the club website: "We're delighted to welcome George.

"He has good experience, he strengthens the squad and gives us increased competition for places."

United first-team coach Glynn Snodin knows the Belfast-born defender well from working together on the international stage.

McCartney completed a move to West Ham United in August 2006 and spent two years in East London before returning to Sunderland under former Black Cats manager Roy Keane.

He suffered a knee ligament injury in a pre-season game in Portugal and Sunderland hope the loan spell will help the player to regain full fitness.

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