McNair, Honeyman and Asoro should have Sunderland team built around them

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The three youngsters were all shining lights in last season’s dull campaign, therefore Sunderland should build their League One side around them.

Despite back-to-back relegations from the Premier League and Championship, Sunderland fans remain upbeat about the prospect of League One Football.

With new owner Stewart Donald pledging to spend more money than any other League One club has before, there is an expectation that the Black Cats can return to the Championship at the first time of asking.

However, Sunderland’s promotion bid will have to be accompanied by a good team core and players the new manager can build around.

First in that trio of players is former Manchester United midfielder Paddy McNair, who has scored five goals in his 25 appearances on Wearside.

The 23-year-old has been plagued with injuries since joining the Black Cats in 2016, but has showed promise in both the Premier League and in particular the Championship.

St Mirren boss Jack Ross has been heavily linked to the vacant managerial position at Sunderland and he should deeply consider building a team around McNair.

In addition to McNair is 23-year-old George Honeyman, who featured heavily in last season’s Championship struggle.

Like McNair, Honeyman was one of the only players in the squad who came out of the season with any credibility. Former Sunderland boss Chris Coleman was also a fan of Honeyman, hinting that a future team should be built around the youngster.

Last but certainly not least is Joel Asoro, who has been linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light after an impressive end to last season.

The Swedish winger scored some impressive goals at the end of last season, with the standout coming against Fulham at Craven Cottage. Sunderland lost that game but Asoro was recognised as one of the better players on the pitch that evening.

The 19-year-old will likely be a regular feature in next season’s League One outing if he is to stay on Wearside, but the task will be to keep him as a Sunderland player.