Former Sunderland midfielder Kevin Kilbane has said that manager David Moyes needs to change the mood of fans that support the club in a similar way to what Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has achieved.
The Black Cats are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League standings and ten points adrift of safety with just seven games remaining.
Though they are likely to be relegated, club owner Ellis Short recently announced that Moyes will remain manager of the club next season regardless of which division they are playing in.
While speaking on Match of the Day 2, Kilbane said, “There was a real positivity about Benitez when he was appointed in March 2016 and, at the end of the season, the fans were right behind him, saying the club had to persuade him to stay.
“They did, and they are reaping the rewards now. If Moyes is going to turn things around, then he needs to change the mood around the club, especially in the stands.”
