Sunderland have started this season in strong fashion in Sky Bet League One and fans will be hoping that promotion is on the cards.

The Black Cats have been through some tough times in recent years it is safe to say but it is clear that things do seem to be that bit brighter now.

Under Jack Ross, they have a squad that is eager to impress and climb the leagues - full of young talents that are taking the chance presented them.

Josh Maja is obviously the headline act from the youth ranks but, close behind, is midfielder Bali Mumba who looks capable of having a fine career.

Only earlier this month it became legal for him to learn to drive but, already this season, he has built on his debut from the end of last year.

An athletic player with plenty of quality on the ball and a good engine in midfield, it's evident the teenager has the right attributes to become a force in the middle of the park.

Certainly, Jack Ross thinks that he is good enough having played him a handful of times this year and, though he still has much to learn, he appears to have the right mentality in order to do so.

In midfield, Sunderland have good options with the likes of George Honeyman, Lee Cattermole and Max Power all offering genuine quality.

Mumba, though, is rightly considered an option to feature as a first-team player among those names.

That tells you all you need about his quality already and, if he can build and earn more minutes this year in a tough division like League One, he'll be well equipped for a good career.