Sunderland skipper John O'Shea is convinced they can beat the drop.

Even though Gus Poyet's side have drawn one and lost five of their last six matches, O'Shea reckons a turnaround is imminent.

He said: "For some reason, our best performances this season have been against the top teams.

"Our problem has been in the games against sides around us.

"We have got more points from games against teams in the top half of the table - that shows we have ability.

"And that is why we head into the run-in without any fear.

"Don't get me wrong, we know there are very difficult games ahead but we have to be confident we can get something from them."