Thomas Butler

Butler continued to make steady progress at Sunderland in 2000-01 and, following an early-season outing from the subs' bench in the Worthington Cup tie at Luton Town, he spent two months on loan at Darlington in the autumn where he thrilled the Feethams crowds with his darting runs.

After returning to the Stadium of Light, he went on to gain some valuable Premiership experience towards the end of the campaign with several appearances as a substitute.

He is equally at home in midfield, where he possesses a good short-passing game, or wide on the left, where his ability to beat a man can be used to good effect.

Butler made his debut for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s against Portugal at the beginning of June featuring as a substitute, and was then promoted to the starting line-up for the game in Estonia when he put on a superb display, providing the crosses for each of his side's three goals.

Butler joined Hartlepool United in March 2005 with a contract to the end of the season.

His contract at Swansea City was extended to June 2012 in July 2011 but was cancelled in January 2012.