Sunderland’s focus has now shifted towards the transfer market after the appointment of Régis Le Bris with all eyes on sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and head of recruitment Stuart Harvey.
The 48-year-old Frenchman was appointed as Sunderland’s new head earlier this summer, signing a three-year deal on Wearside after leaving French club FC Lorient. Sunderland have since signed Simon Moore and Alan Browne as their preparations for the new season ramp up.
Le Bris expressed his desire to keep Jack Clarke at the club but admitted there are no guarantees in the transfer market. The player then spoke to the media after Sunderland’s pre-season friendly loss against Gateshead.
When asked about transfer interest after the game, Clarke replied: “Obviously that interest has been there but it doesn't affect me. I'm still wearing a red and white shirt at the end of the day. That's what I'm focusing on. As long as I'm in a red and white shirt, that's all I'll be focusing on.
“I'm coming in every single day, wearing Sunderland colours every day. As long as I'm playing for Sunderland I won't be thinking about anything else. If things are going to happen then they're going to happen when they happen. I'm not focusing on anything else other than the present and in the present, I'm playing for Sunderland.”
Here, we take a look at how Le Bris’ dream starting XI and squad could look if Jack Clarke decides to stay and Sunderland secure their preferred striker options this summer:
13. SUB: Simon Moore
Former Coventry City and Sheffield United goalkeeper Simon Moore has signed a two-year deal to join the Black Cats, with the club holding the option for a further year. The club’s sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said that the goalkeeper would add valuable competition for Anthony Patterson, | Ian Horrocks
14. SUB: Luke O' Nien
O’Nien is into his sixth season at Sunderland and remains a key player for the club. The 29-year-old signed a new three-year deal this last August, with a club option of a further year. The centre-back provides leadership and experience to the club's young playing squad. | Getty Images
15. SUB: Leo Hjelde
Hjelde, 20, signed a four-and-a-half-year deal when he joined Sunderland from Leeds United in January. Photo: Frank Reid
16. SUB: Nectar Triantis
Triantis joined Sunderland from Australian side Central Coast Mariners in June, signing a four-year contract at the Stadium of Light. The 20-year-old has impressed since at SPL side Hibernian in January after joining in loan and will be hoping for more opportunities on Wearside next season. Photo: Frank Reid