Sunderland AFC news: Cats eye swoop for experienced international plus Duncan Watmore comeback hint

And recent reports have linked them with a swoop for an experienced international - who could be available on a free transfer.

HITC Sport claim that former Newcastle United and Burnley defender David Edgar, who has over 40 caps for Canada, could be set for a trial spell at the Academy of Light.

The vastly experienced 31-year-old has recently left MLS side Ottawa Fury and is eyeing up a return to England.

And it seems Sunderland could be a possibility, with manager Jack Ross refusing to rule out a move for the centre back following the victory over Barnsley.

Ross also hinted at a possible first team return date for Duncan Watmore, who stepped-up his recovery in the under-23's defeat to Middlesbrough on Monday evening.

The Sunderland boss suggested that the Checkatrade Trophy clash with Macclesfield Town on December 4 could see the pacy forward return to the Stadium of Light.

He's getting ever-closer," Ross said.

"I know people are waiting for him to come back but we have been really patient with him and he is in a really good place because of that.

"We'll have another conversation now in the wake of the Middlesbrough game and see where he goes from there – obviously we have the Checkatrade Trophy game coming up, and there's another U23 game the week after that."