Phil Parkinson's reign as Sunderland manager hasn't got off to the best of starts.

The former Bolton Wanderers boss has won just two of his opening nine games in charge, leading the Black Cats' out of the EFL Trophy and with their FA Cup hopes hanging by a thread.

Add to that their current seventh place standing in League One, and Sunderland find themselves in a bit of a situation.

While there's a long way to go this season, Parkinson will be hoping that he can call on several of his core players to help move the team up the table in order to challenge for promotion.

Here are five of the Sunderland manager's most indispensable players.

The Scottish goalkeeper has been a key player for much of this season.

McLaughlin has conceded 18 goals in 16 appearances so far this term for Sunderland, and if Phil Parkinson is to get more points on the board then the 32-year-old will be a key part of those plans.

The stopper is experienced at this level and will no doubt be a real leader in the dressing room as things kick on this term, even if Lee Burge moves ahead of him in the pecking order.

One of Sunderland's most consistent performers.

While he's played at full-back previously, Luke O'Nien has been used in a more advanced role in recent weeks - a position which he's certainly settled into.

O'Nien's quality - but more-so his versatility and willingness to adapt - could be pivotal for Sunderland this term as the fixture list continues to pile up through the winter months.

The experienced midfielder will be crucial for Phil Parkinson both on and off the pitch.

Leadbitter has been there and done it during his time with Sunderland, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough - with relegation battles, play-off pushes and mid-table scraps all part of the battle scars that he wears.

I won't say that you can't win anything with kids but having an experienced head like Grant Leadbitter in the ranks is a huge boost.

The Scottish winger has arguably been Sunderland's best player so far this season.

Six goals in 19 appearances is a decent return from the 30-year-old who simply needs those around him to start firing.

If Phil Parkinson can keep Chris Maguire fit then he stands half a chance of challenging for promotion.

Another player who will be crucial to Phil Parkinson's promotion hopes.

Aiden McGeady is one of the few Sunderland players to have competed at the highest level, making him the go-to man for a moment of magic.

If McGeady can retain his consistency in the coming weeks and help the likes of Will Grigg to find his feet, then Sunderland's attack will start to look like one of the most dangerous in the league.