Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio believes that striker Danny Graham will be "crucial" in the club's final three games of the season.

The Black Cats will take on Stoke City, Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur in a bid to keep their place in the Premier League.

While Graham has failed to launch a run of form in front of goal following his move to the Stadium of Light from Swansea City, Di Canio is confident the striker can come good.

"I am sure he will be crucial in these last three games," the Daily Star quotes Di Canio as saying. "He is going to score and I am not just saying that because he is the only striker we've got.

"I always encourage him but I don't have to go too deep with Danny and convince him because this is not a bad moment for him. He is doing well."

Sunderland are currently two points away from relegation.