Striker Conner Wickham has challenged Sunderland to show more consistency.

The Black Cats failed to build on their fine derby victory over Newcastle United last week by slumping to an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace at home this weekend.

The defeat means that Sunderland have been sucked right back into the relegation mire and now striker Wickham has urged his side to become more consistent if they want to avoid the drop.

He said: "Consistency is important in any team, and we've only got seven games left. They're important games and we need everyone to play a part."

As for his own output, Wickham was delighted to be given a chance by manager Dick Advocaat which yielded a late goal in the loss to the Eagles.

"Yeah it did (feel good). To be in the manager's first XI and then to get the praise that he gave me afterwards was good. But I can't just do it for one game," he added.

"I need to do it in every game, so hopefully I'll be consistent and it'll pay off towards the end of the season. I want to play as much football as I can, and if I can stay in the team then that'll be great."