Bardsley was signed by former Sunderland boss Roy Keane in January 2008

Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has admitted he could leave the Stadium of Light if a move would give him regular first-team football.

Bardsley, 24, has found himself used as a substitute in recent matches having been ousted at right-back by the loan signing of Tottenham's Alan Hutton.

"If it's to be at Sunderland, or somewhere else, all you want is to play football," Bardsley told BBC Newcastle.

"I'll look after myself, and keep myself in the best shape that I can."

The former Manchester United full-back, who was a team-mate of Hutton's during a loan spell at Rangers in the 2006-07 season, has filled a variety of positions this season as Black Cats boss Steve Bruce has looked to plug gaps created by injuries to Michael Turner, George McCartney and John Mensah.

Bardsley is happy to play whatever position is asked of him by Bruce.

"I'm one of those players, I'll do what the manager wants me to do," he added.

"I'll step in wherever he needs me to step in and try to do my best."

Since joining the Wearsiders from Manchester United for £2m in January 2008, Bardsley has made 69 appearances, scoring once.

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