Costel Pantilimon: 'Sunderland can avoid relegation'

Sunderland goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon has claimed that the team has what it takes to survive in the Premier League.

The Black Cats have taken just two points from their opening five league fixtures so far this season and were beaten 1-0 at home by Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Despite failing to win a match this term, Pantilimon is confident that Dick Advocaat's side will turn their fortunes around.

"We missed good chances but I think we played well against Spurs," Goal.com quotes him as saying.

"Sometimes it's like this but the best thing about that game was that we improved our game, we started fighting and started working like a proper team. We played some great football in my opinion.

"It's true that we lost the game and we don't forget that but the best thing in this kind of situation is to think positively. If we can play exactly like we did against Spurs in our future games, we should be okay."

Sunderland face Bournemouth on Saturday.