Patrick van Aanholt is adamant Sunderland will hold their nerve in the relegation battle.

Sunderland are preparing to face his former club Chelsea this weekend.

“No, we were not nervous [at Stoke]," the Dutchman told the Evening Chronicle.

“We had the same mentality as we've had in previous weeks. We got the point in the end which is fine because it's still in our hands. We've still got a game in hand on Newcastle, so we just have to focus on ourselves.

“We just have to focus on getting the three points against Chelsea.

“Chelsea haven't had the best season, but I'm sure they will be back next season and be challenging at the top of the league.

“But our fans have been outstanding all season, so with that home support, we can do something."