It has been an interesting summer for Sunderland with several key positions requiring some attention in the transfer window and the rumour mill in overdrive regarding potential incomings and outgoings after the club’s losses to Ipswich Town, Crewe Alexandra and Preston North End.
Sunderland, though, did manage to win in the Championship for the first time against Rotherham United then following that result up with a good point away to Coventry City.
With that in mind, we have put together a possible starting XI and squad for next season (including some of the possible signings) if the transfer gossip turns out to be true on deadline day. Several Sunderland players are also close to an exit as things stand. Take a look here:
1. GK: Anthony Patterson
The goalkeeper hasn't missed a Sunderland league game for quite some time now. Photo: Clive Mason
2. RB: Trai Hume
The Northern Ireland right-back was a revelation for Sunderland towards the back end of the season. Photo: Stu Forster
3. LB: Dennis Cirkin
The former Tottenham Hotspur left-back has proved his quality in the Championship under Tony Mowbray. Photo: Clive Mason
4. CB: Luke O'Nien
Sunderland's Mr Versitile is heavily favoured by head coach Tony Mowbray Photo: Andrew Redington