Transfer business?

Sunderland host Bristol Rovers at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

Sunderland last week launched a £500,000 bid for Argentinian striker Mateo Bajamich, while it is known that another left-back is must before the October deadline to provide cover and competition for Denver Hume.

But what’s the latest on the transfer front and how many more signings are likely? Parkinson has already made it clear that Sunderland are close to the numbers he wants ahead of a busy season.

Speaking after the 8-1 win over Aston Villa’s Under-23s, Parkinson said: “With the numbers we have in the squad, we're pretty close.

“I'm very pleased with getting Danny [Graham] in.

“He's a front-foot player who wants to score and as you saw, his link-up play is great.

“Some of his build-up play was terrific as well.

“So I'm pleased with that addition and he'll go be a good role models for our younger players, he's a good trainer and a good professional.

“We're getting there, another one would be great for us in the next week or so and we're working towards making the right addition to compliment what we've got.”

Midfield conundrum?

Parkinson has several options for those two central midfield roles.

Max Power, the new team captain would seem a certain starter after an impressive pre-season, but who plays alongside him? Josh Scowen, Grant Leadbitter – who remains club captain – or George Dobson?

Good options, with either set-piece specialist Scowen or energetic Dobson the more likely starter against Rovers on Saturday.

Forward dilemma?

Parkinson has a number of forwards in form, a nice headache to have. Who gets the nod to lead the 3-4-3 formation? Will Grigg seems to be in pole position after a positive pre-season and despite his penalty miss against Hull.

Charlie Wyke was among the goals against Villa, along with Aiden O’Brien and Danny Graham. Grigg, however, looks to be given the chance to lead the attack this season.

Follow Phil Parkinson’s press conference live on our SAFC blog:

Phil Parkinson press conference: Three key questions for Sunderland boss ahead of Bristol Rovers season-opener

Transfer business?

Midfield conundrum?

Forward dilemma?