LEE Cattermole insists Sunderland must target a top-eight finish, and Europe, if progress is to be made in the coming Premier League season.

While the Black Cats last night made their ninth signing of the summer, agreeing a £350,000 fee with Derry City for 22-year-old Republic of Ireland winger James McClean.

Steve Bruce’s side finished 10th in their last campaign. But Cattermole believes they must target the group of clubs just outside the league’s traditional powerhouses, and top it.

“It has to be Europe, that’s our aim,” said the Wearsiders’ skipper.

“I don’t see why it can’t be. We have to aim for that. The lads have set their sights on eighth this season, so if we can do that, after finishing tenth last year, that would be good.

“If you look outside the top seven – Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Everton, who have been there for a long time now – we have to get to the top of that next bracket. We can challenge teams like that.”

First, Sunderland’s season starts at Liverpool, meaning a reunion with Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing – who enjoyed a brief loan spell at the Stadium of Light and played alongside Cattermole at Middlesbrough.

But while he wishes both well, Cattermole is determined to ensure their old side comes out of the clash on top.

“Jordan has got a great move to Liverpool, he has a chance,” Cattermole said. “Hopefully he will do well, and it is also good business for the club.