Sunderland sign Babb
The former Republic of Ireland international has sealed a three-year deal with The Black Cats.
Babb started his career with Millwall as a trainee but it was at Bradford City that the defender established himself.
Coventry City brought Babb to Highfield Road, and after three successful seasons at the club, Liverpool swooped for the Lambeth born player.
Things went sour at Anfield for Babb when he lost his first team place, and after failing to impress in a loan spell with Tranmere Rovers, the player plumped for a move to the Primeira Liga in Portugal.
31-year-old Babb has picked up over 30 caps for Ireland and, after an impressive season with Sporting, had hoped to be selected for the World Cup squad.
However, boss Mick McCarthy had other ideas, and Babb was not selected in the 23 to travel to Korea & Japan.
Sunderland have suffered a torrid season and are keen to make changes - with long term links to Brazilian legend Aldair, and a host of strikers across Europe.
But it is Babb that becomes the first signing of the summer for Peter Reid - who will be hoping that the defender can replicate the form he has shown in Portugal.
