Sunderland have received a timely boost in their pre-season preparations with the news that both Dylan McGeouch and Reece James have extended their stays with the club.

The pair's futures were somewhat up in the air following last season, but according to a report in the Sunderland Echo which takes comments from owner Stuart Donald, both players have decided to extend their spells with the Wearside club.

The news represents some positive news for the Black Cats, who are still reeling from their play-off final loss to Charlton Athletic at Wembley which saw them miss out on promotion to the Championship.

McGeough was in and out of the team under Jack Ross and was thought to be keen on a move away from the club, while James was a regular for the Black Cats and will be delighted to extend his stay with the club as they seek to win promotion next time out.

Manager Jack Ross is keen to keep the bulk of his squad together over the summer while adding just a few players of sufficient quality which will see them once again challenge at the right end of the table.

Sunderland looked all set to win automatic promotion last term but relentless form from both Barnsley and Luton as well as some key losses put paid to their hopes of an immediate return to the second tier.

The Verdict

This is good news for Sunderland isn't it, let's be honest.

They need to keep their best players together and also need to ensure their squad isn't torn apart.

A collective squad all pulling in the same direction is crucial if you are to get out of League One, and Ross will be hoping his players harness to disappointment of last month to inspire them going into the new season.