Sunderland need a miracle to stay in the Championship after recent results left the Black Cats eight points away from safety.

Given that, many fans will have resigned themselves to League One next season after another embarrassing season.

Once again, problems from the top of the club have caused this mess, with Chris Coleman unable to keep the side up after taking over from Simon Grayson.

Whether the former Wales manager decides to stay on remains to be seen but whoever is in charge will have to make major changes in the summer.

One positive is that the Wearside outfit will be the biggest club in the third tier by a long way and should be able to attract the best players in the division, providing the problems higher up are resolved.

Here we look at five players who could join to help the side make an immediate return to the Championship.

The goalkeeping situation at the Stadium of Light this season has been shambolic, with three keepers given a chance at some stage or another and all of them struggling.

That needs rectifying straight away in the summer and whilst Lonergan has struggled for Leeds, he should be a safe choice for the third tier.

The Wolves defender won't be needed at Molineux next season and is sure to move.

Whilst he has struggled with MK Dons this year, Ebanks-Landell has performed very well for Wolves and Sheffield United in promotion-winning campaigns in the past.

A permanent move to Wearside could help his career and he would certainly help the struggling Sunderland defence.

The tough midfielder is out of contract at Birmingham in the summer and will surely be looking to get regular game time next year.

That would come with the Black Cats who could do with Lowe's leadership qualities in what is likely to be a new team.

The Walsall midfielder has had a fantastic season and may attract interest from Championship clubs.

However, Sunderland could appeal because of the side of the club and Oztumer would be guaranteed a game.

He has the creative spark that they've been missing this season and would be a big signing.

Another who may have Championship interest but again if Sunderland act quickly they would surely tempt the £315k rated powerful striker.

As with Oztumer, Wyke is proven in the third tier and that's exactly what Sunderland will need if they are to bounce back.