Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat is anxious about his club's relegation battle.

The Black Cats had their bubble burst on Saturday in the wake of last weekend's Tyne-Wear derby triumph over Newcastle United by losing 4-1 at home to Crystal Palace.

The defeat sees the Wearside club sitting perilously close to the bottom three and despite being three points clear of 18th-placed QPR, Dutchman Advocaat admits there is cause for concern.

"Am I worried? Yes, very worried," said Advocaat.

"I think I'm as worried as the other coaches who are in the same position as ourselves. We showed we can do something against Newcastle, but if we carry on performing like this then we have no chance."