Paolo Di Canio's new-look Sunderland side have failed to make a breakthrough in the opening 45 minutes against Fulham at the Stadium of Light.

Italian midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini, making his debut for the Black Cats, looked lively early on and threatened with a powerful shot that just crept over the crossbar.

Stephane Sessegnon formed a good understanding with Jozy Altidore in the first half and it was the former who came close with a powerful effort following some neat footwork on the edge of the box.

Another one of Paolo Di Canio's recent signings, Cabral, nearly sent the Sunderland supporters wild with a fantastic piece of skill followed by a beautiful shot that drifted just wide of the target.

Fulham looked relaxed in possession but they struggled to pick the correct pass in the final third of the pitch as Sunderland continued to look dangerous in attack.

The hosts were inches away from taking the lead late in the first half when Jack Colback whipped in a superb cross for Altidore, who failed to make the right contact at the near post and wasted a great opportunity.

Sunderland came even closer to opening the scoring just before the interval when Ondrej Celustak unleashed a brilliant effort that looked destined for the top corner before Maarten Steklenburg tipped the ball over the crossbar.