Pantilimon: Don’t panic – Sunderland will stay up

Costel Pantilimon: Sunderland goalkeeper

Costel Pantilimon: Confident in Sunderland survival

Sunderland goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon believes the club’s performance against Tottenham proves “they are fighting” and can avoid relegation.

Dick Advocaat’s side have collected just two points from their opening five games and currently sit 19th in the Premier League table – one place above neighbours Newcastle on goals scored.

A late Ryan Mason goal condemned the Black Cats to a 1-0 defeat at home on Sunday, but many considered Sunderland unfortunate not to take anything from the game after an improved display.

That was certainly the view of Sunderland goalkeeper Pantilimon, who is refusing to panic and remains optimistic the club can ultimately stay clear from relegation.

“We missed good chances but I think we played well against Spurs,” he said.

“Sometimes it’s like this but the best thing about that game was that we improved our game, we started fighting and started working like a proper team. We played some great football in my opinion.

“It’s true that we lost the game and we don’t forget that but the best thing in this kind of situation is to think positively. If we can play exactly like we did against Spurs in our future games, we should be okay.”

Sunderland travel to Bournemouth in their next Premier League game on Saturday.