Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat is confident that his side have enough quality to win their relegation battle this season.
Advocaat opened his account as Black Cats manager in style by securing a 1-0 derby-day win over bitter rivals Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light this afternoon.
The victory lifted the North-East side up to 15th, three points clear of danger, and the Dutchman is convinced that survival is on the agenda this season.
"Hopefully on May 24, we are still there because that's the most important thing. This helps," he told reporters at a post-match press conference.
"I always have said we will survive, but this is just the first game. But we had to win today because there was a lot of pressure on the team."
Advocaat's side host Crystal Palace next Saturday.
