Phil Parkinson has urged his players to believe in themselves as he looks to get Sunderland’s frontline firing.
The Black Cats return to action on Saturday when they welcome Southend United to the Stadium of Light, kick-off 3pm.
Taking on Sol Campbell’s side on the back of a league defeat at Shrewsbury Town last and a penalty shootout cup exit to Oxford United, Parkinson has been left to rue his side’s missed chances.
But speaking to safc.com, the 51-year-old has been pleased with the attacking intent his side have shown but admitted they must start to believe they can finish if they are to develop a ruthless streak.
“We have got to believe in ourselves more in and around the opposition goal,” he said.
“The woodwork has been against us and on Tuesday we had some guilt-edge chances and should’ve seen the game off.
“We have got to get the players believing more in themselves, so they do take the chances when they come.
“I can’t fault the desire, the running power, the fitness levels and the drive to get back in the game,” he continued. “When we got the goal, I was so pleased for the lads as well as the supporters because they put a lot of effort in.
“The league is crucial and at the moment the defeat on penalties hurts. There are so many good aspects of play because at the moment we aren’t very far away from having a good side.”
