Black Cats can’t afford to rely on luck this season

Speaking before a deal for the ex-Evertonian was finalised, Poyet revealed: “It’s clear we need a few new players. I hope it is now, today, tomorrow.”

Rodwell will have somewhat sated the Uruguayan coach’s transfer appetite, with the dynamic box-to-box midfielder just the type of player the Black Cats require to plug their midfield. The high price tag placed on the young Englishman was a surprise, given that his injury problems have restricted him to just 26 appearances since his move to Manchester City in 2012.

Sunderland have seen 12 players leave Wearside this window, including the likes of Craig Gardner and Phil Bardsley, as well as homegrown Jack Colback’s controversial departure to Newcastle.

Only six new recurits have arrived to replace the outgoing bodies, and the expensive gamble on Rodwell could prove costly if he fails to stay fit, potentially leaving Sunderland light on top quality midfielders.

Sunderland could also do with reinforcing their centre back options, as the erstwhile former Red Devils duo of Wes Brown and John O’Shea are not getting any younger.

Injury-prone Brown is already 34 years of age, and only managed to make 24 appearances for the Black Cats last campaign. The versatile veteran is entering the final year of his contract, as is experienced skipper O’Shea, who will also turn 34 this season.

A younger, durable and pacier option could make all the difference to the Wearside club’s campaign, even if only to provide cover alongside Valentin Roberge.

Sunderland have made some savvy moves this summer, though, by securing star man Sebastian Larsson on a new contract until 2017, and snapping up ex-City stopper Costel Pantilimon for free. The 27-year-old goalkeeper will likely initially play second-fiddle to Vito Mannone, who was one of few Black Cats players to impress last term.

The Italian, who saved two penalities in the Capital One Cup semi-final against United, was voted Sunderland Player of the Year, and the increased competition can only be beneficial for the Black Cats, as Poyet looks to keep players on their toes.

Sunderland still have question marks remaining over their offence, however, with the northeast side expected to dip back into the market mainly for attacking options. It is believed Poyet, who has been linked with a swoop for Chelsea forward Victor Moses, would like to add more pace up front, and covets a winger as well as another striker.

Last season’s loan star Fabio Borini, who netted 10 times for Sunderland in that spell, is tipped for a rumoured £14m return to the Stadium of Light, but the Italian appears to be dragging his feet over a permanent move from Liverpool. The talented forward would likely command a huge portion of Poyet’s transfer warchest, leaving further loan signings as the most likely additions.

Tottenham misfit Nacer Chadli has also been mooted to move to the northeast, as uncertainty remains over starlet Connor Wickham’s future. Sunderland seem keen to tie the striker down, after the 21-year-old helped them beat the drop last term with five goals in 12 Premier League appearances, but he only has one year left on his contract.

Remaining attacking duo Steven Fletcher and Jozy Altidore, who only netted four times between them last season, are likely to enjoy a stay of execution, as Poyet looks to ensure he has enough cover for a full and demanding Premier League season.

After only scoring 41 goals in 38 Premier League outings last term, Poyet is right to seek further options in offence, as Sunderland, 9/2 to be relegated this season, should be looking to do more than just survive this time around. Otherwise, it may not be third time lucky.