Former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips says he expects the club to make two more signings before the summer transfer window closes at the end of this month.
It has already been something of a busy summer for the Black Cats in terms of player signings. Midfielders Corry Evans and Alex Pritchard, along with full-back Dennis Cirkin, have all joined on free transfers.
Meanwhile defensive duo Callum Doyle and Frederik Alves have moved to the Stadium of Light from Manchester City and West Ham respectively.
Now it seems as though Phillips believes there is still work for Sunderland to do before the market closes, and believes the size of the club can help them to get potential deals done.
Speaking to Football Insider about what he expects from the Black Cats in what remains of the window, Phillips said: “I always like to bring in quality over quantity. The problem is every team is out there looking for quality players.
"Sunderland have the edge in terms of finances, look at 30,000 in the ground most weeks. That alone is a reason to bring in more players before the window shuts.
“I think there will be two more signings but I don’t want to see squad players. I want two players who can come in and really push to break into that team.
“From the manager’s point of view, he does need those squad players in a League One season. I want to see two quality additions either way.”
It has been a good start to the season for Sunderland, with back to back 2-1 wins over Wigan and MK Dons in the league giving them six points from a possible six in League One so far.
The Verdict
It is hard not to agree with Phillips in that there does still seem to be work that Sunderland need to do in the transfer window.
The Black are yet to replace Charlie Wyke this summer, and while Ross Stewart has stepped up in the early stages of the season, they would be short of options to turn to were he to pick up an injury.
Indeed, the size of Sunderland as a club should also make them an appealing side to play for, particularly with the financial backing they ought to have at the minute.
Their strong start to the season should also work in their favour, since players are more likely to want to play for a club who are enjoying some success, so it could be interesting to see just who the Black Cats are able to bring in in the next few weeks.