Friday 7 April 2017 17:59, UK
David Moyes admits Sunderland's season is close to "desperation" and they must beat Manchester United on Sunday to survive.
The Black Cats boss and his players have watched videos of the club's previous escapes from relegation for inspiration as they search for their first win since February 4.
Sunderland find themselves 10 points adrift of Premier League safety with eight games left and he admits they need to string a run of wins together to avoid the drop starting with against United on Super Sunday.
The former Everton and United boss, whose side lost 2-0 to Leicester on Tuesday, said: "Look, we're not kidding on, we're getting close to desperation.
"We have to win. I have been saying that for the last... I was probably saying it before Christmas time.
"In fact, I've been saying it since probably day one of the season if you want to be truthful, that we had to win.
"I don't think my message has changed from then to what it is now, that we have to try to win the games.
"We are certainly not giving up. The club has done it (in the past)."
Moyes insisted the furore which surrounded his exchange with Sparks has not been a distraction. He has until Monday to respond to a Football Association request for his observations on the incident after being granted more time.
He said: "It's been a busy week because of the games. The other situation is now gone and in the past and I have moved on.
"Nothing would ever get in the way of my preparations as a manager or as a coach.
"I'm incredibly focused on my job and that's the way it will always remain."
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