United take Halford on loan

Sunderland defender Greg Halford has signed a season-long loan deal with Sheffield United.

The right-back, 23, has become Kevin Blackwell's first summer signing at Bramall Lane.

Halford made nine appearances for the Black Cats last season before joining Charlton on loan in January, where he played 16 games.

The former Colchester full-back signed for Sunderland in a £3m deal from Reading a year ago.