With the League One season rapidly approaching, Ross will be starting to formulate his plans for the opening day against Oxford United - but it may not be too late for some players to stake a claim. Scroll down and click through the pages to see the NINE players will be desperate to impress Ross in Portugal:
1. Denver Hume
The omission of Bryan Oviedo hands Hume a real opportunity to shine. As the only natural left-sided defender in the squad, the place is Hume’s to lose - but he’ll need to prove to Ross that he deserves that position. It’s not make or break for the youngster, but he certainly has a fine chance to stake his claim. Photo: Frank Reid
2. Dylan McGeouch
With rumours of an exit now cooling, McGeouch will be looking to make his mark on the Sunderland side. Jack Ross has now shortage of midfielders to choose from, but the Scot offers something of a different quality. Photo: FRANK REID
3. Elliot Embleton
Having signed a new two-year deal earlier this week, Embleton now has a chance to make his mark. Sunderland lacked creativity towards the end of last season and the youngster could provide a much-needed spark. Portugal is an ideal chance to impress. Photo: Frank Reid
4. Luke O'Nien
While O’Nien doesn’t have a point to prove in terms of his performance levels, much could be learned about where Jack Ross sees him in the long-run during the trip to Portugal. A wing-back role may be the most suitable moving forward, given the style Ross wishes to play. Photo: FRANK REID