Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill believes that his side will have to "battle" to become an established top-10 team in the Premier League.

The Black Cats are currently eighth in the table with as many games left to go in the current season.

Despite a positive position, the former Aston Villa coach believes that it will take time for the North East side to keep their spot in the top half of the table for seasons to come.

"I have heard we want to be a top-10 team, a top-10 football club, and that's great, it's a great ambition," said O'Neill.

"But you have to strive for that. You just don't turn up at the start of the season and say, 'We are a top-10 side' and things fall in accordingly. You don't realise. You have to battle every single week for that, every week, and this is the point."

Sunderland are due to face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow.