Paul Butler

With the arrival of Stanislav Varga and Emmerson Thome at Sunderland in 2000-01, Paul found the task of holding down a regular first-team slot somewhat difficult.

Although he started as first choice alongside Varga, he soon lost out to Jody Craddock and was restricted to appearances in the Worthington Cup.

In November, he joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan and made an immediate impact, striking the bar on his debut against Blackburn and giving the defence a more assured look.

The Wanderers were anxious to recruit him but a permanent deal was delayed due to a change in management.

However, once Dave Jones was installed as boss he was duly signed up and carried on where he had left off.

Unfortunately he was sidelined shortly afterwards by a torn muscle in his groin and the injury required corrective surgery.

A big strong-tackling central defender, he is decisive in the tackle and more than useful in the air.

Paul joined Leeds United in July 2004 with a two-year contract that was extended to June 2007 in July 2005.

Paul was made available for transfer by Leeds United in November 2006 before his contract was cancelled in January 2007.

He then joined Milton Keynes Dons with a contract to the end of the season.

Paul joined Chester City in July 2007 with a one-year contract that was extended to June 2009 in July 2008.