There may have been a few surprised Sunderland fans when their retained list was announced on Tuesday evening, with team captain Max Power's name amongst the players to be released.

After making 52 appearances in all competitions for the Black Cats this past season - a number only Charlie Wyke could better - Power has been let go after two-and-a-half years as a permanent Sunderland player.

A natural central midfielder, Power was often used at right-back last season due to Sunderland's defensive injuries, showing his versatility for the very first time and many expected him to be offered a new deal.

But it seems as though Sunderland have their eyes on bigger and better players for their engine room ahead of the 2021/22 campaign as Power, along with other midfield generals Josh Scowen and Grant Leadbitter, were all let go by Lee Johnson.

Power will have no shortage of suitors at League One level and one club that has been linked to him is Ipswich Town.

According to the East Anglian Daily Times, Power is one of three currently contracted Sunderland players being targeted by Paul Cook, who looks to be eyeing up a reunion with Power, who he managed at Wigan Athletic where they were promoted to the Championship together in 2018.

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, former Tractor Boys player David Norris has spoken out on Power's departure from Wearside and that a move to Suffolk could be a great opportunity for the 27-year-old.

"I was a bit surprised at that," Norris said on Power's release from Sunderland.

"I've done some off-season training with him in the last few seasons, he's in really good shape, fit, and looks after himself.

"He's been there and done it with (Paul) Cook before previously so that would be a good signing for me."