Football journalist Rory Smith says Sunderland could struggle to balance European football with their Premier League campaign, warning that the club may not have the squad depth required.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club, Smith said the transition could prove difficult in their first season.

"My mate who is a Sunderland fan, when they got into Europe, one of his first thoughts was they don't have the squad for that," said Smith.

"It's really difficult making that transition for the first season."

Sunderland fan and former England captain Steph Houghton agreed that squad depth and recruitment will be key, insisting it is not just about having enough players, but bringing in the right quality."

Houghton suggested European qualification could help Sunderland attract more players to strengthen the squad but stressed that Premier League survival must come first.

"If we're in European football, staying in the Premier League is a must," she said.