MICK McCARTHY insisted last night that he is relishing the challenge of revamping Sunderland's squad - even though he will be working in a financial straitjacket.

McCarthy knows he must embark on a clearout this summer to alleviate the club's £26m-plus debts.

But rather than be concerned about the huge task that faces him, the Sunderland manager is buoyant as he looks ahead to a frantic summer of transfer activity.

He said: "It's something I didn't do with Ireland and it's a difficult part of the job - the best part is being on the pitch with the players.

"We need something to happen; people to go and people to come in so we can start building.

"But it can be exciting because it means you can build your own team.

"There will be people sat in the stand on Saturday who are looking at our players and perhaps trying to cherry pick one or two of them.

"There will be players who want to impress me and make sure they're in my thoughts for the rest of the games and for next season."

McCarthy has enjoyed attending fans' forums this week as he outlines his plans for the future.

He insists the hope of a brighter future that has been present on Wearside, despite their woeful season, has been carried into his meetings.

McCarthy said: "I've been well received by supporters. I think they wanted to hear my thoughts on players and the team, and how I like to play.

"I wasn't prepared to discuss what had gone on in the past, but I got a positive reaction; they seemed optimistic.

"I think they started with negative and pessimistic thoughts, and why wouldn't they? The club has just been relegated, so they won't be singing and dancing.

"But it was a proper chat - I listened to what they had to say - and I had positive feedback from it."

After defeats in each of his first four games in charge, McCarthy is desperate for a victory to lift a little more of the gloom that has enveloped the club.

Sunderland need six points from their last five matches to avoid being branded the worst-ever Premiership team, with Watford's total of 24 in their sights.

McCarthy said: "I don't want to go through all nine games and not get a win. We need a win, wherever we get it from.

"It was more than likely that we were going to be relegated when I came in, so the place has been down for a long time. But a win would be a boost."

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