Ex-Liverpool star says Sunderland should contact Steve Bruce over signing Newcastle United youngsters

That’s according former midfielder Jason McAteer, who says the Black Cats need stability and a fresh vision ahead of a third successive season in League One.

Current owner Stewart Donald, who is looking to sell the club, confirmed earlier this month that Sunderland will continue to operate with the biggest budget in the third-tier.

However, McAteer believes that isn’t always the way forward – adding that Phil Parkinson should give former boss Bruce a call as a part of targeting young and hungry loan players.

Speaking to the Racing Post, McAteer said: “Leeds have finally settled and discovered the right recipe which plenty of clubs could learn from – a prime example being my old club Sunderland, who are looking at a third successive season in League One.

“You cannot keep chopping and changing all the time and now is the time for them to lay the foundations and look at a different way of doing things.

"You can’t just jump from one set of owners to another or one manager to the next and expect things to improve. It’s still a great club with a brilliant stadium but they need stability and a vision of how to do things.

“They could tap up other clubs for good young loan players who are eager to get an opportunity. Perhaps see if Steve Bruce has some good youngsters at Newcastle who want to be out there playing.

"Throwing money at a situation is not always the answer. They need a blueprint and to build again. Others have proved that, with time, you can get there.”