Whilst they can still mathematically stay up, everyone connected with Sunderland knows the club will be in League One next season.

The Black Cats are six points from safety with just three games left, so it will be a miraculous recovery from this situation.

One positive factor despite the poor atmosphere around the club is that Chris Coleman has revealed he is prepared to stay on in the third tier.

Obviously, he hasn't covered himself in glory this season given that he has been in charge since November but most recognise that the major problems at the club start way above the former Wales boss.

Coleman will already be planning for next season and here we look at three players who could seriously help in League One...

Sunderland's need for a goalkeeper is well-known. They've tried three different keepers this season and none of them have been anywhere near good enough.

Andy Lonergan should be available and is an upgrade on what they currently have whilst he is also very experienced.

The midfielder has impressed significantly at Notts County this season, on loan from East Midlands rivals Forest, and he's ready for the step up.

A loan deal would probably be the way to go but he would add a lot to the team. He scores goals from midfield and is technically sound, exactly what Sunderland need.

Coleman will surely be looking for players he knows will cope with League One, and Antonsson does.

Even though he hasn't been a regular, the forward has notched seven goals for Blackburn this season and has a lot more to his game.

The Swede is an intelligent player and could excel given a regular run at that level, whilst he's certain to be available too.