Former Sunderland midfielder Chris Waddle has warned that the club could be relegated from the Premier League this season if they do not improve defensively.
The Black Cats are currently bottom of the table after failing to win any of their opening seven games.
Dick Advocaat's side have shipped 16 goals in that time and have the worst goal difference in the division as a result.
"They've got a problem with their defence. I mean, it's not rocket science – you can see the back four has not gelled. They are conceding a lot of goals, too many goals – bad goals as well," Waddle told The Chronicle.
"Let's be honest, he needs a couple of defenders if they're going to get out of this. If you can sort the defence out, then they will have a chance, but at this minute, you're going to say they'll do very well to survive the Premier League this year."
Sunderland host West Ham United at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
