Discipline and belief will hold the key to success at West Ham United according to Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe.
The former Hammer has been at his devastating best during the early stages of the campaign despite a disappointing start for the Black Cats, but it has done little to dampen the confidence within the camp.
On Saturday David Moyes’ side continue their Premier League campaign with a maiden voyage to West Ham’s London Stadium, with Slaven Bilic’s sitting 15th in the table.
And speaking to safc.com the 34-year-old revealed the Black Cats are relishing the trip.
“West Ham are a top side,” said Defoe. “Look at the players they’ve got – great individuals – who can create things out of nothing, so it’s important to be disciplined and believe we can win the game.
“The lads are looking forward to it and we had a good session this morning [Tuesday], so once we come back in on Thursday everyone has to be switched on and ready.”
He continued: “They’re playing in a new stadium and we need to use that to our advantage; the pressure is on them because they haven’t played well at home and the fans there expect so much.
“They set the standard last season but we can go there and be relaxed and confident, while also being compact because if we don’t let them score the minimum we come away with is a point.
“I’m looking forward to it so hopefully we can get the three points and kick on.”