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?
9. CAM: Alex Pritchard
Following a slow start to the 2021/22 campaign, due to missing a large part of pre-season, the 29-year-old playmaker has been one of Sunderland's standout performers since joining the club from Huddersfield last summer. Pritchard looks set to be an important player again this season, partly due to his previous experiences in the Championship. Photo: JPI Media
A player who stepped up in the big moments last season. Embleton, 23, wasn;t always a regular starter but still contributed with eight league goals and six assists. His versatility and ability to produce with both feet will help the playmaker as he competes for a place in the starting XI. Photo: JPI Media
What a season it was for the Scottish frontman, who scored 26 goals for the Black Cats during the 2021/22 campaign. Former Sunderland boss Lee Johnson said he believes Stewart is a top-half Championship striker, and the 25-year-old will now receive a chance to prove himself in the second tier. Photo: JPI Media