Jermain Defoe: 'We should be fine if we keep up the energy'

Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has backed his club to avoid relegation from the Premier League this season.

The Black Cats earned a 1-1 draw at Swansea City on Saturday thanks to Defoe's solo effort, with the frontman insisting that his side can avoid the drop if they continue to play with a certain energy and directness.

"Even when I was playing for other teams, coming to Sunderland was always a difficult game," said Defoe, according to The Guardian.

"We just have to make it like that, we have to be direct, play with a lot of energy and create chances. If we keep doing that we should be fine."

Gus Poyet's men occupy 14th spot in the league standings, with 24 points from 24 games so far this campaign.