Stewart Donald reveals how many players Sunderland may sign in January transfer window

Jack Ross has said that he would be open to adding defensive cover to his squad but by and large is happy with what he has.

Donald backed up that message and says business will be limited to potentially strengthening some 'key areas'.

"I think we'll strengthen," he told talkSPORT.

"Jack is really comfortable [with the squad], he's very laidback every time I talk about it to him.

"We won't see five or six come in, but we might see two or three in key areas.

"We've got to give ourselves the best chance to kick on."

While the EFL's financial rules mean significant business would still be a challenge, the Sunderland chairman says that sales are not required for Ross to do the business he is currently planning.

Donald hailed those at the club for getting on board with the 'cultural changes' that have helped significantly improve the club's financial health.

"We've got ourselves in quite good financial condition, better than we thought," he said.

"We don't have to [sell].

"There may be one or two but I don't think it would stop one or two coming in."

Ross is set to take David Edgar on trial this week, having identified defence as one area where his squad may be vulnerable.

Donald Love and Denver Hume both have significant injuries at the moment, while there are obvious doubts

The imminent return of Charlie Wyke and Duncan Watmore, however, mean his forward areas are well stocked.

His planning in those departments is primarily based around responding if there is an unexpected departure.

Donald hailed Ross for the 'fantastic' work he has done so far.

"Absolutely [bitten your hand off for it]," he said.

"It's easy to say, 'ah it's Sunderland, a big team in League One'.

"We had an awful lot to do, culturally, even with the players, they came back from two relegations, so they were bound to be a bit down and questioning themselves.

"Jack has got them believing in themselves, and brought in a load of players who seem to fit the club.

"He's done absolutely fantastic to get the atmosphere right on the pitch."