The Blacks Cats have lost their first two games of the season.
Sunderland’s Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough’s Antonio Barragan
Sunderland defender Papy Djilobodji has told the Chronicle that he believes they will improve after the international break.
It has been a summer of change for the Black Cats, with David Moyes drafted in late to replace Sam Allardyce after he took the England job.
Their start under the Scot’s leadership has not been a good one, losing the opening-day clash with Manchester City and then losing to rivals Middlesbrough last weekend.
Their chances have been dented by the absence of several first-team stars, with the likes of Lamine Kone and Jan Kirchhoff among the key names absent.
Sunderland’s Papy Djilobodji in action with Middlesbrough’s George Friend
Djilobodji has backed his side to get better when they have some of those players back after the international break.
“When the injured players come back, we will be stronger,” he told the Chronicle.
“The international break has come at a good time for us with the injuries. We can work more on the training ground to prepare for the next Premier League game after that.”
Sunderland manager David Moyes before the match
While injured players will play a big part in Sunderland improving, much is likely to rest on whether they can secure more signings before the end of the transfer window.
The squad is in need of improvement in several areas, with it currently looking short of the quality needed if they are to avoid relegation.
Moyes has made it clear he wishes to strengthen and whether he can do so will play a big part in their hopes of bouncing back from this poor start.
Sunderland manager David Moyes before the match
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