Sunderland boss Roy Keane has allowed former Aberdeen defender Russell Anderson to join Plymouth Argyle on a month's emergency loan arrangement.
The 29-year-old moved to Wearside last summer but has made only two appearances for the Black Cats and none for almost six months.
The Scotland international has struggled with injuries since his arrival at the Stadium of Light but recently played for the reserves as part of his rehabilitation.
He signed a three-year deal with the Black Cats in June 2007 after the two clubs agreed a transfer fee in the region of £1million for the player.