Sam Allardyce: 'We're in a hole'

West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has said that his team are "low on confidence" following tonight's 6-0 thrashing at Manchester City.

The West Londoners have not won in the Premier League since November and find themselves in the bottom three, but Allardyce said that it is important his players do not get too down about tonight's result.

"It's not unique to us - Manchester City have done this to Tottenham and Manchester United," the 59-year-old told Sky Sports News. "We knew they had to have an off night and they didn't, their finishing was outstanding in every sense of the word.

"They are a side who have outstanding players because they spend outstanding money. What do you expect when you have free transfers against players who cost millions and millions?

"Let's face the fact, City have a miles better squad and are on miles better money. For us it is about not letting the players get too low. We've got a struggling defensive unit and they are low on confidence. We haven't got a fully fit squad and we are in a hole and we need to dig ourselves out."

Sunderland lead Manchester United 2-1 after the first leg of the other semi-final.