Lescott joins sinking Sunderland squad

London - Sunderland have moved to strengthen their defence with the signing of veteran defender Joleon Lescott on a short-term deal.

The 34-year-old joins a squad with injuries to 10 first choice players including sidelined defenders Jason Denayer, Javier Manquillo, Jan Kirchhoff and Paddy McNair.

A former Wolves, Everton, Manchester City, West Brom and Aston Villa defender, Lescott joins the Black Cats after a short spell in Greece with AEK Athens.

He played under new boss David Moyes at the Toffees and now will be hoping to help his new club avoid relegation.

Sunderland are bottom of the Premier League standings with just 15 points from 22 games.

A brief statement from the club read: "Joleon Lescott has joined Sunderland AFC on a short-term contract.

The defender has put pen to paper on a deal with the Black Cats until the end of the season. He will wear the shirt number 15."

#SAFC have signed @JoleonLescott on a short-term deal - https://t.co/Xpqt5GCenY pic.twitter.com/M1wn9Hqnkh

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) January 24, 2017

Sunderland next welcome Tottenham Hotspur who boast the strongest defence in the league to the Stadium of Light on January 31 that will prove to be am uphill battle to pick up much-needed points.

Kick off is at 21:45.