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Released by Sheffield United, Clayton Donaldson is ideal for Sunderland

Clayton Donaldson of Birmingham City battles for the ball with Beram Kayal of Brighton & Hove Albion during the Sky Bet Championship match betw...
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Sunderland should target experienced forward Clayton Donaldson.

A general view of the Stadium of Light before the Premier League match between Sunderland and Middlesbrough at Stadium of Light on August 21, 2016 in Sunderland, England.

Life in League One will take a bit of getting used to for Sunderland next season, with fans still coming to terms with the reality of their fall from grace.

But the Black Cats cannot feel sorry for themselves and must get on with putting together a squad of players, and trying to find talents who are familiar with the division.

That is why they should make Clayton Donaldson one of their top targets, following his release from Sheffield United.

Birmingham, ENGLAND- November 19:Clayton Donaldson of Birmingham City in action during the Sky Bet Championship match between Birmingham City and Bristol City at St Andrews Stadium on...

Donaldson is 34, and is at the stage of his career where he needs to drop down a division.

He had big success in League One previously, where he netted 53 goals in three seasons for Brentford between 2011 and 2014.

This form earned him a move to Birmingham, and last season Sheffield United, but competition for places saw Donaldson used sparingly and he scored just five goals, while providing three assists.

Clayton Donaldson of Birmingham City battles for the ball with Beram Kayal of Brighton & Hove Albion during the Sky Bet Championship match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Birmingham...

Going to Sunderland would be the right move for Donaldson, and his ability to lead the line could be key.

Sunderland need leaders next season and Donaldson will know what to expect in the division, being able to set the standard.

They cannot rely on youngster Ashley Fletcher to score goals after his disappointing two seasons since his spell in the division with Barnsley, and bringing in a proven goalscorer like Donaldson would ease the burden.