After a few years of hurt both on and off the pitch, Sunderland seem to be back on the up in the football pyramid.

Under the tutelage of Jack Ross, Sunderland look ready to return to the upper echelons of the English footballing ladder and would fancy themselves for a promotion back to the Championship.

The Black Cats sit fourth in the table, having lost just one game in eleven fixtures.

Most recently, Ross’ side managed a 2-2 draw with high-flyers Peterborough, which isn’t a disastrous result.

In fact, Sunderland have been draw specialists, and potentially what separates them from the play-offs and automatic spots is the inability to turn draws into wins.

Jack Ross has an ace up his sleeve, however: the free agent market.

If he desires, there is plenty of talent, mostly experienced veterans, that could bolster his options both defensively and offensively.

Here at FLW, we look at THREE free agents still available should Sunderland fancy them…

Darren Bent is available after having been released by Derby County in the summer. The veteran striker was last of Burton Albion on loan, but failed to impress.

Down a league, however, Bent could excel. With striker Josh Maja on top form in the goal department, he wouldn’t be guaranteed a start, but his experience could be vital for Sunderland’s season.

Franck Moussa was let go by Gillingham in the summer, but could be a shrewd bit of business for any League One club.

The attacking midfielder is somewhat a ‘journeyman’ after seemingly playing everywhere, but his experience could make him well worth a gamble by Jack Ross for such little economical loss.

Glen Johnson was released by Stoke City in the summer and is still looking for a club.

The ex-England full back would be a good signing for Sunderland, who may be looking for some valuable experience to add to their relatively youthful squad. Johnson would bring some good character to the dressing room which may delight Jack Ross.