But what do supporters want Parkinson to do? Hundreds of fans voted in our online polls and have delivered a clear verdict on the decisions they want the Black Cats to make.
Scroll down and click through the pages to see the THREE players Sunderland fans want to be released in the summer:
9. Jack Baldwin
81% of fans have called for the defender, who is currently on loan at Salford City, should be allowed to move on in the summer. VERDICT: RELEASE Photo: Frank Reid
10. Ethan Robson
He may still be waiting for a first-team opportunity at Sunderland this season, but 77% of fans think Robson deserves a new deal after his impressive loan spell at Grimsby. VERDICT: RETAIN Photo: FRANK REID
11. Josh Scowen
The January arrival has been backed by 66% of fans to earn a new deal. VERDICT: RETAIN Photo: Frank Reid
12. Benji Kimpioka
He frustrates and excites in equal measure, and that's reflected in the close margin of Kimpioka's poll. 55% of fans believe he should be handed a new deal, though. VERDICT: RETAIN Photo: Frank Reid