EUROPEAN qualification is the next target for Sunderland after their seventh place last season.

That's the view of England fullback Michael Gray, who believes that the Wearsiders begin their second Premiership campaign in a stronger position with a year's experience under their belts and a few new faces in the camp.

"We have to try to have a more successful season than we had last time - everyone wants that.

"And if we can improve on seventh place then we are looking at a place in Europe."

Gray welcomes the additions to the squad, even though his own place might be threatened by the impending arrival of young Argentinian star Julio Arca, who has been bought for £3.5m and is currently awaiting his passport to be issued enabling him to play in the Premiership.

"The gaffer has brought in some quality players," said Gray.

"Don Hutchison is probably the best player Scotland has at the moment.

"He is a good leader and can also pop up with a few goals, which is what you need.

"Jurgen Macho has impressed the lads in training and while Thomas Sorensen is a top-quality goalkeeper, you need competition and I am sure he will be pushing him.

"Stanislav Varga is another player who has come in and done well in training. He has two great feet and has shown he can pass the ball short or long with great accuracy. He looks to be a very solid defender and he could prove to be another Peter Reid bargain buy, though he might not make the same impact as Kevin Phillips!"

Gray is not worried about the arrival of Arca.

He said: "Football is all about competition for places. If you pay £3.5m for someone he is obviously a quality player.

"But his arrival at the club doesn't worry me. All I can do is concentrate and work hard. If I am in the team I must be doing something right."

Gray anticipates a difficult start against Arsenal, though this season Sunderland have the advantage of a home game.