Sunderland's pre-season starts with a double-header against South Shields and Gateshead.
The Black Cats will also travel to Spain before more domestic friendlies before the Championship campaign kicks off again.
Which players do you want to see given a chance? What systems, tactics and partnerships should be experimented with?
What would make Sunderland's pre-season a success to you?
Image source, Sunderland AFCSunderland announced the signing of Alan Browne earlier this week after the experienced midfielder's contract expired at Preston North End last month.
On BBC Radio Newcastle's Total Sport, Lancashire Post reporter George Hodgson offered an insight into the transfer expressing Preston fans' confusion and disappointment in Browne's departure.
Hodgson described the 29-year-old Republic of Ireland international as someone who will come in and set standards for the squad.
Presenter Simon Pryde, commentator Nick Barnes and striker-turned-pundit Marco Gabbiadini further discussed Browne's arrival on Wearside.
You can hear the full discussion on BBC Sounds.
We asked for your reaction to Sunderland signing Alan Browne. Here are some of your comments:
Chris: Good to see a signing with experience and a proven Championship pedigree hopefully many more to follow.
Robert: But he's not French. Did they get confused between the Irish and French accent?
Robin: Good to hear that have are attracting some players but where are out goals coming from?
David: No problem, hope this is the start of some positive signings. I hope the next one will be an experienced centre forward.
Dennis: Another free transfer the club seems determined not to spend any cash, the club desperately need a couple of strikers or else the season is over before it begins.
Colin: Need a lot more experienced players than just him if we are to do anything next season. As well as goal scorers, defenders, creative midfield players and pace all over the park, then we might just not have another calamitous season.
Alex: Really pleased with this transfer. Very experienced in the Championship, a consistent performer for years, proven leader, and a proven ability to play 40+ matches a season without injury issues. Just the kind of experience we need to help mentor the younger players.
Sunderland have announced the signing of Alan Browne after the experienced midfielder's contract with Preston North End expired this summer.
The 29-year-old is a Republic of Ireland international and has played more than 400 games for Preston.
The new man told the club website, "It’s a big change for me after being at Preston for such a long time, but it’s brilliant to be here.
"Sunderland is one of the biggest clubs in England and I can’t wait to get started. I captained Preston for some time, so hopefully I can bring those leadership qualities to the Stadium of Light and add to what is a very talented squad.”
How do you feel about the signing of Browne? Have your say here, external.
Kristjaan Speakman has spoken about transfers, Regis Le Bris and more in an interview with BBC Radio Newcastle's Nick Barnes.
Sunderland's sporting director insists the club are open to signing experienced players and although the transfer window offers no certainty, he hopes to retain the club's star players.
You can listen to the full interview on BBC Sounds here.
George Forster started selling badges and scarves to Sunderland fans in the 70s and is a legend among Black Cats supporters.
The 97-year-old visited the new club shop and shared his thoughts with BBC Radio Newcastle's Nick Barnes on the newly opened retail space, the new kit and new head coach Regis Le Bris.
You can listen to George's visit to the club shop on BBC Sounds here.
Image source, Getty ImagesSunderland have appointed Regis Le Bris as the club's new head coach.
In a statement on their website, the Black Cats say, "Sunderland AFC is delighted to announce the appointment of Régis Le Bris as Head Coach.
"The Frenchman will arrive on Wearside on 1 July 2024 and sign a three-year contract at the Stadium of Light.
"Régis’ move to the North East brings an end to his 12-year association with French side FC Lorient, which included leading Les Merlus’ senior team from June 2022 to June 2024.
"Following his appointment, Régis said: “I am honoured to be joining Sunderland AFC and look forward to immersing myself in the culture of the Club and the city.
"I believe the best way to understand and appreciate what makes a Club unique is to connect with the people who embody its spirit - the supporters, the community and all those who contribute to its character.
"All coaches talk about their enthusiasm and vision when they start a new role. I'm certainly here to pass on my energy and my convictions, but also to listen and learn.
"The history of this Club is very strong, and this is a unique opportunity to be part of that legacy.
"I recognise the potential of our team, a group that has seen both successes and more difficult times.
"Our journey together has only just begun, and I am ambitious about what we can achieve.
"I want us to bring joy to our fans, not only through results, but also through our style of play, and I'm convinced that with commitment and hard work, we can write an exciting new chapter.”
"Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman added: “We are delighted to have attracted someone of Régis’ calibre to Sunderland.
"He is a talented coach, who is thoughtful and detailed in his approach and values strong relationships with players and staff.
"He is aligned with delivering our playing identity and he shares our ambition to win, as well as our passion for talent development.
"We are excited by the new ideas Régis will bring to Sunderland and look forward to supporting him in his new role.”
"Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus concluded: “I must start by thanking our fans for their patience and support throughout an extensive recruitment process.
"It was imperative for us to try and appoint a candidate who could build on the foundations we have established and play an integral part in fulfilling our long-term ambitions.
"After following Régis’ career in recent years and meeting with him extensively, we believe he can make that contribution and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland AFC.
"I’m looking forward to the 2024-25 season and excited for us all to be back together at the Stadium of Light in August.”
What do you think of the appointment? Have your say here.
French football expert Andy Scott has told BBC Radio Newcastle what to expect from the man Sunderland are set to appoint as their new head coach.
The Ligue 1 commentator has described Regis Le Bris as a good coach with a speciality of developing young players, but a poor record of transfers.
You can listen to the full interview on BBC Sounds.
Image source, Getty ImagesThe BBC understands that Sunderland are looking to appoint Lorient manager Regis Le Bris as their new head coach.
The 48-year-old was part of a five-man shortlist drawn up by The Black Cats' hierarchy after Michael Beale was sacked over 100 days ago.
He's been in charge of the French side since 2022 - who were relegated last season.
Talks will continue this weekend with Le Bris and the club hope to conclude the deal in the next three or four days. A work permit is also needed.
What do you think of Regis Le Bris? Have your say here.
Image source, Getty ImagesThe BBC understands Frank Lampard is not under consideration by Sunderland for the vacant head coach position.
There have been that rumours the Chelsea legend was to be appointed by the Black Cats to replace Michael Beale.
Sunderland have been without a permanent boss for more than 100 days and owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus released a statement last Friday saying an announcement was imminent.
How do you feel about Lampard not being considered by Sunderland? Have your say here.
