Former Sunderland chief executive Roberto De Fanti says Gus Poyet is the right manager for the club.
Sunderland are reeling after their 8-0 humiliation at Southampton.
"The biggest mistake of the club's board was not to listen to me and Valentino's suggestion not to confirm Paolo (Di Canio) at the beginning of last season," said De Fanti to BBC Sport. "Paolo was fundamental in saving the team from relegation, but not the right manager to lead what would have been a new group.
"Cracks inside the locker room were evident already then.
"Luckily, our suggestion to take Gus was not unheard and he was able to achieve results with exactly the same team as the beginning of the season.
"He will also save the club also this year, if he is allowed to work properly."
