Ross wants to make mark early on against play-off chasers

Jack Ross wants his Sunderland side to put down an “early marker” when Charlton Athletic visit on the opening day of the League One campaign.

Sunderland will kick-off their League One campaign on Saturday, August 4 in front of the Sky Sports cameras (KO 12.30pm).

And Ross is looking for his players to get off to a strong start as they target promotion back to the Championship, though he admits Charlton will provide a tough test on the opening day.

Sunderland then travel to Luton Town a week later before the visit of Sheffield Wednesday in the first round of the Carabao Cup on Thursday, August 16. The home game against Scunthorpe United on August 18 is followed by backto-back away games at Gillingham and then AFC Wimbledon to cap a busy opening month. Black Cats boss Ross can’t wait for the action to get underway, with the Sunderland squad returning to training at the Academy of Light on Wednesday.

“It is a tough opening fixture when you look at the relative success Charlton had last season in reaching the playoffs,” said Ross.

“They finished last season in good form and they are a club who have ambitions to get out of the league this season.

“The fact we are at home gives us the chance to put down an early marker.

“We are pleased with our fixtures, it will be a tough opening period when you look at the travelling involved but it will be exciting nonetheless.

“I have been down here for quite a long time now because I wanted to get a feel for the club.

“My favourite bit as a manager is being on the training pitch and working with the players so I am looking forward to pre-season now and starting to get normality back.

“I want to get back to what I believe I enjoy most and what I am best at, so it is exciting.”