Martin O'Neill: "Spirit" key to survival

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has insisted that his side will have to show plenty of "spirit" if they are to get away from their current relegation problems.

The Black Cats have won just twice so far this season and as a result they currently occupy one of the places in the Premier League's relegation zone.

However, despite his team's current predicament, O'Neill is confident that the players have what it takes to move themselves away from trouble.

"Essentially the team is the same as it was last year. I've added two players for money and some free transfers," O'Neill told reporters.

"At the end of the day we still have the same group of players with the same spirit and spirit alone can do wonders really. It might not be enough eventually, but I think there's enough talent at the football club to get out."

Sunderland face fellow strugglers Reading at the Stadium of Light tomorrow night.