Paolo Di Canio: If we are relegated, "I've failed"

Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio has admitted that if his side are relegated from the Premier League, then he would have "failed his mission".

The Black Cats are currently 15th in the Premier League and are three points clear of the relegation zone.

He told reporters: "I don't want to think about relegation. When I came here, it was because I thought I could keep this club up. So if we go down, it means I've failed my mission.

"I say: 'Show you want to go to ­Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea. Who says you'll have another chance to play in the Premier League? That should be enough motivation to give your best'."

Sunderland take on Southampton later today at the Stadium of Light.