SUNDERLAND manager Jack Ross insists progress has been made in Portugal despite a couple of blanks from his team's two friendlies.

The Black Cats boss had to look on in Albufeira as his side followed up a goalless draw with Benfica B by losing 1-0 to Beleneneses.

The results were certainly not ideal, although the manager - like most at this stage of the summer - claims to be not too bothered about the outcomes provided things have been learned.

Sunderland have been playing with a different style during pre-season, having been sent out to play in 3-4-2-1 formation. Ross believes that can take time and he is encouraged by what he has seen.

“We are trying to implement a system that enables us to play with a more creative edge to our game,” Ross told the club's website.

“We have got a lot of good players in forward areas and on Saturday I was pleased with their efforts.”

Ross, who is still looking to bring in more new players before the season starts against Oxford on August 3, also feels that the performances of Elliot Embelton and Duncan Watmore bode well for the campaign ahead.

He said: “I thought we got the balance right – Duncan (Watmore) was really good and Elliot (Embleton) has been terrific since he came back for pre-season.

“What we wanted to get from the game in terms of a challenge was there, but from what we’ve seen from what we’ve worked in was really pleasing.”

Sunderland are still in the market for former Burnley striker Tinashe Chakwana, but face competition for his signature.

Barnsley, who were promoted ahead of Sunderland last season, have reportedly joined the race to sign the England-based Zimbabwean forward.

Chakwana, 20, was released the Clarets in the summer and Sunderland have kept an eye. It had even been thought they had secured his signature before but he had only been on trial and Barnsley are closing in.