Sunderland can use their EFL Cup clash at Southampton to breed confidence and momentum ahead of a return to Premier League action, says captain John O’Shea.
The Black Cats have enjoyed a confident cup campaign so far defeating Shrewsbury Town and Queens Park Rangers, but Saints will provide a stern test as David Moyes' side come up against top-flight opposition for the first time in the competition.
Wednesday’s game is Sunderland’s second trip to the south coast this season having gained a point in September, but for the second year running it was Saints who stole the headlines as they struck late on to deny the Ladsa valuable win.
This week there are no points up for grabs as both sides aim to reach the quarter finals, but skipper O’Shea refused to downplay the importance of coming away with a win.
"Without a doubt [it gives us a chance to build confidence ahead of Arsenal]," said the skipper. “We want to win games as quickly as possible for everybody associated with the club – ourselves, the fans, and the management and coaches.
“We especially want that win in the league, but if we can get a win in the cup and get through to the next round we’ll take it.”
He added: “There’s some interesting ties in the round, including ours which is a tough one against Southampton, but hopefully we can get something from it.”