Sunderland midfielder Dean Whitehead is delighted he stayed last summer.

The 25-year-old midfielder had the chance to join a top-flight club, but decided instead to fight for an instant return with his existing employers.

He told the club's official website: "It was the toughest decision I have ever had to make, but it is, without doubt, the best decision I have ever made.

"I had the choice last summer, but I wanted to stay with Sunderland and wanted to get them back in to the Premier League.

"I have since been made captain by the manager and we won promotion at the first time of asking, so hopefully I will be able to play my part in keeping us there for many years."