JOHN O’SHEA insists battling relegation is just like fighting for the title.
Sunderland’s stand-in skipper is in uncharted territory this season having become more used to scraps at the top of the league in his time at Manchester United.
But O’Shea, 31, believes he can draw on his time at Old Trafford â€" where he won five Premier League crowns â€" to help pull the Black Cats out of trouble.
He said: “It’s not something I’m used to. It’s a new experience for me.
“But in its own way, I don’t think it is any different from when you’re chasing for a title â€" it’s all about the importance of winning pressure games.
“You faced that all the time at Old Trafford and you got used to it, so it is not going to affect me playing in pressure games at the other end of the table.
“It all comes down to everyone in the team focusing completely on the job they’ve got to do, making sure they do it and looking to help out and support their team-mates along the way.â€
Sunderland are just six points clear of the drop zone and face a huge clash with Norwich this Sunday.
Martin O’Neill’s side know a win against the Canaries is crucial with games against Man Utd, Chelsea and Newcastle to follow.
But O’Shea added: “While there’s no denying the Norwich game is a massive one for us because it’s the next one up and the next game is always the most important â€" I wouldn’t say that it is like a cup final.
“There are nine games to go this season, so if you’re talking cup finals, every one of them is a cup final â€" they’re all opportunities to pick up points to get us towards safety.
“The bottom line is that we have to go out and handle the pressure and win a few games and I’ve got no doubt at all that we’re a good enough side to do that.â€
Video: We need to start winning - O'Neill
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4839346/John-OShea-Sunderland-relegation-battle-like-title-race.html
