Sacked Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill was convinced they'd be safe, despite defeat to Manchester United yesterday.

Before being shown the door, O'Neill believed he had seen enough to suggest they will be okay.

"I thought we were tentative and nervous and the start but then we stormed into the game in the second half," he said. "I was very pleased with the team.

"I was delighted with the effort of the team and it bodes well. There is some determination in that dressing room."