Jermain Defoe has highlighted the importance of recording points early in the season.

Defoe's Sunderland sit at the foot of the Premier League table with just two draws from their opening seven fixtures and although there is plenty of football to be played, the striker believes it is crucial to start amassing some much-needed wins, starting with West Ham United at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

"It is a long season and there are so many more games to play, but it is important that we start getting points now because you can't wait and think we will do it next week, we will do it next week - we have to do it now," the 32-year-old said.

"There is also nothing better than getting the points before the lads go away and focus on their countries, but it is also important for the manager and the coaching staff because then they can relax and when we come back we can regroup and kick on from there.

"West Ham are a good side and they have picked up a lot of points and beaten some of the big teams, so they will come here and be confident, but it is important for us to set our stall out from the first whistle and be positive."

The former Tottenham star added: "We need points now and as players, we understand that. Everyone is trying and I think we just have to approach it like any other game, don't get too tense and try to relax."