Alex Neil knows he has a number of big decisions to make this summer with the clock ticking on a number of players contracts. Sunderland are in action against Sheffield Wednesday this weekend with contract talks currently on the backburner.
The Black Cats have options to buy loanees Leon Dajaku and Ron Thorben-Hoffmann at the end of the year, while Patrick Roberts, Arbenit Xhemajli, Bailey Wright, Aiden McGeady, Lynden Gooch, Jordan Willis and Lee Burge are all out of contract this summer. Jack Clarke and Nathan Broadhead are also expected to return to their parent clubs when their loans finish on Wearside.
Neil's immediate focus is on the play-off semi-final clash with Sheffield Wednesday, with a place in the final and a possible return to the Championship the prize. MK Dons or Wycombe Wanderers await the winner, but Sunderland's performance over the next two games could have a huge bearing on contract talks.
If the Black Cats do win promotion to the Championship, Neil will need to assess how many of the current squad are capable of playing at that level, on the other hand, if they fail to win promotion, how many will prove important at this level?
When do clubs have to make decisions on their retained list?
Clubs must notify players as to whether or not they are being retained by the third Saturday of May which falls on May 21 - the League One play-off final - this year.
Do play-off clubs get an extension?
Clubs involved in the play-offs following that date have until four days after their last match.
When does the EFL publish the official list?
The EFL publishes the list by the second Saturday in June which falls on June 11 this year.
