Sunderland are in unchartered waters, down in the third tier for only the second time in their history and facing an uncertain future.

With new owners, a new manager and players coming and going at an alarming rate, there will an unfamiliar feel to the Stadium of Light when the season finally kicks off in August.

That won't be a bad thing, not after the shambolic season they endured last time out.

Successive relegations brought the club to its knees and wholesale changes were not just needed, they were imperative.

Those changes do not guarantee success though, especially not with the delicate situation still being managed in the north east.

Big earners are slowly being moved on as Sunderland become League One ready, but anything less than an automatic promotion campaign will be seen as a huge failure.

FLW looks at three flaws which could potentially derail next season if they're not sorted.

Sunderland need goals if they're going to be a success and missing out on Lyle Taylor was a real blow.

Perhaps the younger players can thrive in the lower division, but a proven striker at this level would certainly ease a few worries. The kids didn't rise to the occasion last season, after all.

Stopping the flow of goals is crucial as last season Sunderland looked weaker than they've ever been before.

A defender from the Turkish second tier isn't going to be the only answer and whilst Jon McLaughlin is a great singing in goal, they need to add before the season starts.

The Sunderland fans expect, but impatience could well be a flaw for them.

The Stadium of Light is a big ground and the pressure will be cranked up. Jack Ross hasn't managed in England before and may need time to adjust, time the fans must afford him.

They might not have it all their own way and if they're going to get through this and the fans have to resist the urge to turn on the team.