New Sunderland goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon believes that the Black Cats can have a positive season due to the number of "strong characters" within the team.

Head coach Gus Poyet was able to guide the team to Premier League survival last season as the club finished 14th in the table.

Ahead of the new campaign, Sunderland secured the signing of Pantilimon on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City in the summer.

"The team has strong characters – only like that can you do things in difficult moments," Pantilimon told the club's official website.

"When Sunderland came to City last season they made a good result, and the wins against Chelsea and Manchester United were great performances, especially when the table was so tight.

"When you play against three of the biggest teams in the league it's important to have strong characters."

Sunderland's full Premier League fixtures for the 2014-15 campaign were released today.