Sam Allardyce has said that Sunderland must start picking up points soon to avoid a relegation battle.
The Black Cats have picked up just six points from 12 games and are four points off safety in the Premier League.
"We have got to do it now, not the last six games," Allardyce told reporters. "I am telling the players, the points in the early part of the season are more precious than at the end.
"They are the points that keep the pressure off. Look at the pressure we are under now.
"We are in the relegation fight again. It will take a long time to get out of it and we have to start that process quickly."
Sunderland travel to Crystal Palace on Monday evening.
