SUNDERLAND manager Jack Ross is being updated with any progress on the transfer front after taking his squad to Portugal for two friendlies.

The Black Cats travelled to the Algarve on Wednesday minus skipper George Honeyman, who has stayed behind on Wearside nursing an injury that is only said to be minor.

Nevertheless it has been deemed sufficient enough for him to stay behind, even though Aiden McGeady and Max Power have boarded the plane with the rest of the party despite problems of their own.

There will also be no Bryan Oviedo against Benfica B on Thursday night because he was given an extended break having played for Costa Rica in the Gold Cup this summer.

Ross wants to see his team take further progress towards the start of the new campaign in Portugal but he is still hoping for information on the transfer scene.

Sunderland and Reading are said to have contacted Sheffield United to discuss the availability of defender Ben Heneghan. The 25-year-old was sent on loan to Blackpool last season and he impressed with his performances in League One.

At this stage Ross would appear to be looking for players in other areas of the pitch following the arrivals of defenders Conor McLaughlin and Jordan Willis. It could yet be that some players depart, though, so Sunderland will have alternatives in mind.

Sunderland still need to add to their attacking and midfield ranks, where Walsall’s unsettled skipper George Dobson is known to be a key target.