Former England international defender Steve Howey believes the "gifted" Aiden McGeady has made the right decision in penning a new deal with Sunderland.

McGeady joined the Black Cats in 2017 and has signed a new one-year contract to remain at the Stadium of Light ahead of a potential promotion push.

Sunderland failed in their bid to return to the Championship for the first time since 2018 as they lost to Lincoln City in the League One play-off semi-finals in May.

As a result, boss Lee Johnson has been seeking reinforcements and looking to ensure key members of the squad, such as McGeady, remain at the club ahead of pushing for a place in the second tier of English football.

While George Dobson has departed by mutual consent and joined Charlton Athletic, McGeady has committed his immediate future to Sunderland and ex-Newcastle United central defender Howey feels the former Everton winger is one of the best players in League One.

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, Howey said: "He's got quality and I think he's been there for a few seasons now.

"McGeady has been in the League One Team of the Season and he's a very gifted player.

"Let's be honest, Sunderland are the biggest club in League One. Where better could he have gone? The only possible option was going abroad."