Sunderland boss on potential loan moves for young talent in first-team frame

With the senior squad still in a state of flux, Andrew Nelson, Bali Mumba, Elliot Embleton, Denver Hume and Max Stryjek are all part of the Black Cats’ pre-season training camp.

Ross is eager to integrate the club’s best young talent into the first-team squad, but he may yet decide that a short-term is best for some.

Ross said: “I’m a big advocate of players going on loan.

“Every job I’ve had, I’m a big believer in players playing football.

“It’s surprised me that some of the young players here, at the age they’re at, haven’t really played competitive football.

“They’ve probably gone too long without doing that.

“Those ones that are going to travel, there’ll be a couple that are probably going to be around things, but then there’ll also be a couple that need to go out on loan.

“They’ll enjoy that, and it will stand them in good stead, not just for their career here, but for their career in general.

“I can assess them better when I can see them with my own eye, and get a feel for where they’re at, and also what level might suit them, in terms of a loan move.”

Youngster Luke Molyneux, who made his debut in the 3-0 Championship win over champions Wolves on the final day of last season, was due to travel with Portugal too, but he picked up a slight injury in training last week.

He is one player likely to be considered for a loan move.