Former Sunderland boss Peter Reid has backed manager Martin O'Neill to improve the club's recent poor form.
The Black Cats, who have lost seven of their last 12 matches in all competitions, currently sit just one point above the Premier League relegation zone in 15th place.
Despite the club's disappointing position, Reid is confident that O'Neill will get things right.
He told BBC Sport: "When Martin O'Neill initially took over at Sunderland he had a fantastic start.
"With the players he bought in - Adam Johnson and Steve Fletcher - I thought they would kick on but it hasn't gone right for them.
"One thing I know about Martin is that he is a great man-manager and I think he will get it right."
Sunderland face Manchester United at Old Trafford at 3pm today.
