Sunderland have had a very good season so far, with Jack Ross' side third in the League One table as we approach the busy Christmas period.

However, they could go to top of the table if they win the two games in hand they have on rivals Luton and leaders Portsmouth.

Either way, it's an extremely tight and exciting promotion race and many will feel that January will be crucial to giving sides an edge for the run-in.

Given their resources, the Black Cats can attract some very good players to the third tier and Ross will be hoping he is given suitable backing to do just that.

Here we look at FOUR pieces of business that the former St. Mirren boss will look to sort in the New Year...

This is a big ask but it's what Sunderland fans will be dreaming of.

Maja is out of contract in the summer and it's real concern that he will move on in the summer.

However, he is a big player on Wearside and is enjoying his football so it's possible.

England youngster Embleton has been enjoying a very successful loan spell with Grimsby so far this season but the loan is up in January.

In reality, he isn't going to get in the Sunderland side now and he needs to be playing to help his development.

The club should look to get him a move to a lower-end League One side for the remainder of the season.

In terms of new recruits, the Black Cats don't need much, with Ross just looking to add depth in a few key positions.

One of those has to be in defence, with a central defender needed to ensure they can cope for the run-in.

With Jerome Sinclair struggling for goals and Charlie Wyke suffering with injury, the north east side have been very reliant on young Maja to lead the line.

Whilst he's done the job superbly, a new striker would ease any potential worries that Ross has.