Ross: experience leaves Cats ‘well-equipped’ to go up

Jack Ross feels his Sunderland squad is ‘well-equipped’ to deal with the pressures of a promotion challenge, with added experience a big factor.

Sunderland signed five players in January, either on loan or permanent deals, with two of those - Grant Leadbitter (inset) and Will Grigg - bringing a wealth of experience to Wearside.

The battle for promotion in League One is intense, with five clubs competing for the two automatic slots.

“It’s certainly not a hindrance,” said Ross, when asked whether the added promotion experience in the squad will help this season.

“It’s certainly not easy, no matter what league you’re playing in, to win promotion. It’s a slog, it’s a grind, it’s a really tough thing to do.

“There is an understanding right through the squad of what it takes to achieve that and also being able to carry that expectation on your shoulders. “We certainly feel we’re wellequipped with what we have in the dressing room.” Meanwhile, Marcus B rowne is in contention for anO xford United return. Browne has missed the last two games with a hamstring strain.

U’s boss Karl Robinson hopes to have him available, though there is doubt over midfielder Mark Sykes after he collided with the woodwork in training.

On Browne’s possible return being a major boost, Robinson said: “If it’s the Marcus Browne from the beginning of the season it is.

“He’s got a lot to do to get back into the team, so now he’s got a different challenge he’s not had since he’s been at Oxford United.”

Jerome Sinclair is expected to line up against Sunderland after joining Oxford on loan for the rest of the season.