Arsenal revenue helps Leeds United fund McCartney signing

LEEDS UNITED have completed the re-signing of defender George McCartney on loan from Sunderland for the rest of the season.

By The Newsroom

Published 14th Jan 2011, 16:10 BST

Updated 14th Jan 2011, 16:19 BST

The left-back made 17 appearances during his first loan spell before having to return back to the North East after the 3-3 draw with Portsmouth at the end of December.

Manager Simon Grayson revealed he was pleased to bring the player back to Elland Road.

"I'm delighted we've been able to bring George back until the end of the season," said Grayson.

"He did well over the course of his last loan spell and I know what he can bring to the table."

McCartney is likely to be in the squad for the upcoming home game against Scunthorpe United but will be unavailable for the FA Cup third round replay with Arsenal on Wednesday.

It is the great performance against the Gunners that has allowed the club to bring the Northern Ireland international back to Yorkshire, according to the chairman Ken Bates.

He said: "The additional revenue earned from the Arsenal game has helped make this loan possible as we continue to invest both on and off the field."