Exclusive:Phil Smith's Sunderland transfer Q&A: January window state of play with Anthony Patterson and striker updates

Sunderland are expecting a busy transfer window with a number of outgoings expected before the transfer deadline, which closes an hour before the Black Cats host Burnley at the Stadium of Light on Monday, February 2nd.

While it’s expected to be quieter in terms of incomings, Sunderland are proactively looking to strengthen. In a Q&A with Echo subscribers, Phil Smith answers questions from Black Cats fans on the club’s plans and gives some of his own opinions on what he’d like to see this month. You can read all his responses below.