Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill has paid tribute to fans ahead of their clash at Southampton.

More than 2,000 Sunderland supporters will make the 300-plus mile trip to Southampton today.

O'Neill said: "That really sums it up. Last year we went down and played Tottenham and then a couple of days later we played at QPR a couple of days before Christmas and we filled the stand behind the goal which is absolutely remarkable support.

"They're travelling down to Southampton in their numbers three or four days before Christmas shows you all you need to know about this club. It's great motivation for us to achieve something for the club.

"You work every single day to try and put a mark on the club and try and improve results and it's for people like that who're the heart and soul of the football club."