Darren Williams insists Sunderland will stick to their principles as they battle to ensure 2003 brings a change in their fortunes.

Williams is adamant Sunderland should not alter their style of play - despite conceding late goals against Leeds United, Southampton and Manchester United that condemned them to three defeats over the holiday programme.

The Black Cats are a point from safety after their miserable festive campaign, but utility man Williams is confident their approach will reap dividends sooner rather than later.

He said: "I don't think we'll change the way we play and we definitely won't change our frame of mind.

"We're very disappointed that we've got into a habit of conceding late goals but we'll get on with it. What else can we do?

"We'll have a positive outlook for the Cup tie with Bolton. The matches at Southampton and Manchester United will be in the back of our minds, but we have to take the good points from our performances against two of the Premiership's in-form sides.

"We'll look at the work-rate and the spirit which served us so well in those games and play our football until the final whistle.

"The Bolton game is a distraction in many ways, but it's the FA Cup and a good result could kick start our season."

Williams, 25, made his first Premiership appearance for almost two months at Old Trafford on Wednesday and is likely to feature again at Bolton in tomorrow's third round tie.

He added: "It was great to be back and I'd love to get a run in the side.

"Fingers crossed I'll be in the starting eleven against Bolton but you can't take anything for granted. The manager will decide whether or not that happens."

Sunderland are expected to reopen talks about a new contract with Jurgen Macho shortly.

Macho, Sunderland's man of the match in their last two games, has just six months of his present deal left to run and is now able to speak to clubs outside England.

Macho has impressed in the absence of Thomas Sorensen, who is fit again after a 12-week absence with a dislocated elbow.

The Austrian said: "I know there is top-class competition but it is up to the player who has the jersey to keep hold of it.

"Of course, I want to stay in the team, but it's great to have Thomas back because. He is outstanding."

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