Sunderland defender Patrick van Aanholt has said that he is "very positive" about his team's chances this season despite suffering back-to-back Premier League defeats at the start of the new campaign.

The Black Cats were beaten 2-1 at Manchester City in their league opener last weekend, before suffering a 2-1 home reverse against rivals Middlesbrough on Sunday afternoon.

Van Aanholt, who scored Sunderland's consolation against Boro, has claimed that his team are "capable of winning games" this season as they bid to avoid another relegation battle.

"I think we started the game very well. They scored a nice goal and after that we worked hard but they went 2-0 up. We said at half time 'let's get together and keep a clean sheet and if we score we can still win the game," Van Aanholt told Sky Sports News.

"The manager said get more balls in the box and get crosses in. I think we dominated the second half and we're disappointed we didn't get a second goal. I think the way we played in the second half should not be scared of anyone. The season has just started I am very positive we are capable of winning games."

Next up for Sunderland is a home game against Shrewsbury Town in the League Cup on Wednesday night.