Chris Coleman has acknowledged that signing a new striker has to be the priority for Sunderland during the January transfer window.

The Black Cats have struggled to find the net in recent weeks and have since lost 12-goal top scorer Lewis Grabban who returned to Bournemouth after a successful loan spell in the North East.

Whilst they knew his departure was likely for weeks, it was still a massive blow and it leaves Sunderland desperately short up front, which Coleman knows they have to rectify.

And, he told the Sunderland Echo that it's something they've been working on since Grabban's recall clause looked likely to be activated.

"Once we found out that clause could be exercised, we’ve been working on a replacement or replacements. Obviously, now it’s actually happened, there’s a red light flashing now, so that’s something we’ve got to do."

The former Wales boss also admitted that the clubs financial situation meant he will have to look for bargains or loans, but insisted Sunderland are an attractive proposition to players.

"We’re not financially strong, but, with where we are, on the flipside of the coin, players who come to us are going to get a lot of football."

The Verdict

Sunderland are bottom of the league and have just lost their top scorer, so Coleman knows how pivotal the next three weeks are going to be for the club.

Fnas will trust the manager, who has done reasonably well since taking charge, and everyone connected with Sunderland understands just how important a new striker is.

After facing Cardiff this weekend, they face two massive games against Hull and Birmingham, which Coleman will surely want to go into with many new faces.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below!