Chris Maguire has firm message on his ambitions for Sunderland's season and transfer business ahead

The popular forward says the new salary cap rules, and the challenges they pose for the Black Cats, means that it is more important than ever that the club wins promotion back to the Championship.

After agreeing a one-year contract earlier this summer, the 31-year-old is set to be a vital player for manager Phil Parkinson in the upcoming season.

“Our main objective, before the gaffer drums it into us anyway, as players this season is that we have got to win the league, no question about it,” Maguire told the official club podcast, #SAFCUnfiltered.

“This is our third season in League One, I've been here since the start, and it's not where we want to be. We want to be promoted and get to the Championship.

“Especially with what's come into place now with the salary caps etc, it's important for Sunderland to get out of this league as quickly as possible.”

Sunderland will learn their fixture schedule for the new season on Friday morning, and will step up their pre-season preparations with a friendly against Gateshead at the International Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Parkinson still wants to make five new additions to his squad to ensure he has enough cover and competition for what is going to be a challenging schedule.

Maguire says the core of the group in place is good enough for promotion but says it is clear strength in depth is needed.

“Looking at it just now, the squad is a little bit bare in certain positions,” he said.

“We do need a few players in, we've got a few of the young lads up training with us at the minute.

“There's certain positions where we need to bring players in and that can only help.

“What's going in with the salary cap means it's difficult.

“And listen, we've got good players in the squad and we'd back ourselves.

“But we know, third season in League One, this is the year that we've got to get out of it.”