Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe rates their clash with Aston Villa as a relegation Cup final.

Both sides are the two lowest scoring teams in the division.

Speaking to safc.com, the England striker said: "We have to start fast and create chances and try and play a little higher up.

"We need to attack where everyone is closer together, just lock teams in from the beginning, and to come out and play and get a rhythm.

"I think if we do that, like we did against Burnley from the first whistle, then we'll win a lot more games.

"The players [at Villa] have got something to prove to the new manager so they'll give that little bit extra, and they have done that.

"It'll be a good game. They're scrapping for points as well. It's like a Cup final.

"It's a massive game for us so if we stick together and work hard, hopefully the quality will shine through."