Sunderland players celebrate Ross Stewart's goal at Wembley Stadium.Sunderland players celebrate Ross Stewart's goal at Wembley Stadium.
Sunderland players celebrate Ross Stewart's goal at Wembley Stadium.

Sunderland's strongest starting XI following Daniel Ballard’s arrival from Arsenal plus new contracts

Sunderland are less than a month away from the new Championship season – with the Black Cats still looking to strengthen in multiple positions ahead of the new campaign.

Centre-back Daniel Ballard has joined the club from Arsenal and will be hoping to make an immediate impact after impressing while on loan at Millwall last season.

The Black Cats have also been able to agree new deals with Bailey Wright, Patrick Roberts and Lynden Gooch, after their previous contracts expired.

So what's Alex Neil's strongest side as it stands?

We take a closer look...

So what's Alex Neil's strongest side as it stands?