Jones calls for final push

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A win against Guus Hiddink's FA Cup finalists at the Stadium of Light on Sunday would finally bring a successful conclusion to the Black Cats' attempts to retain their place in the top flight after a run of one win in 12 games.

"No one has given us a chance, so we are already the underdogs. All we can do is go out and put in a big effort," said Jones

A victory would mean neither derby rivals Newcastle nor Hull could catch them and end their latest stay in the Premier League after just two seasons.

Defeat would give both hope, although the Magpies would have to win at Aston Villa and the Tigers beat Manchester United to relegate Sunderland. That is a scenario Jones and his team-mates simply do not want to countenance, and for that reason, they will set their sights on a first win against one of the big four since their return to the big time.

The Wearsiders lost home and away to Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool last season, and while they have drawn twice with the Gunners this time around, they are still waiting for their first win.

If that were to come this weekend in the wake of a disappointing 3-1 defeat at Portsmouth on Monday evening, their timing could hardly be better.

Jones said: "At home against the top four, we have done pretty well. I don't think they have come and battered us or just run over us.

"We have been pretty good this season against them, so hopefully we can take that on on Sunday and get a result.

"We were obviously disappointed after Monday night, but we are all just looking forward to the game on Sunday. We still have a chance to cement our place in the league really and truly not depending on anyone else."