Andy Reid insists Sunderland do not have to break the bank to build a successful squad.

"It's not just a case of spending millions," said the Republic of Ireland international. "It helps in the modern game, but it's not just about that. You have to bring in the right characters, the right players. They need to fit into the team and it's not all about spending £130m on Kaká. Certain players don't fit into certain dressing rooms. It doesn't mean they are not good players, but they just might not settle.

"You could bring in five or six players for £5m with a really good team instead of spending £30m on one player that doesn't fit into the squad very well. It's about getting the balance and spending at the right time. The manager has to be able to get that team working in harmony."