Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has expressed his belief that his side can mount a serious challenge for European football next season.
The Black Cats struggled throughout the first half of last season, but their form picked up following the appointment of Martin O'Neill as manager, finishing in 13th place.
Bardsley believes that they can set their sights even higher for next season, with a top-10 finish being the minimum requirement for the former Manchester United man.
"Carlos Cuellar has come in and bolstered the squad so it is great news for us and hopefully there are a few more faces on the way to help us head in the direction we want to go in this season," Bardsley told Sky Sports News.
"Obviously finishing in the top 10 and pushing for Europe, with the quality of players we have got in the squad and if we make additions, that should be our aim.
"It is up to the players now to knuckle down in pre-season, work as hard as we can and be fresh for the start."
Bardsley joined Sunderland in 2008 and has since made 166 appearances for the club, scoring six times.
Barney Corkhill
