Lee Cattermole urges Sunderland to overcome their goal troubles

However, the skipper insists that his side focus on the positives from their efforts in front of goal earlier in the season, where they netted 12 goals in just six games. “I don’t think it’s been so much the goals we can’t get this season that’s been the problem. It’s been more conceding more goals than we ever have," he told Sunderland Echo. “Maybe we’re lacking a little bit of spark in the final third, but then two of the last three games have been against Man United and a well-organised Fulham team. “Before that, we scored four against Stoke, two against Villa, two against Bolton and two against West Brom. “We know the goals are there. “We hit the crossbar twice against Fulham and we’re creating chances, so I don’t think there’s necessary a problem there.” Sunderland are currently 16th in the table, and despite their recent lack of form and rising opposition to manager Steve Bruce, they have not been a lost cause according to Cattermole. He added: “On the whole, we look a lot more solid as a team. “But we chased the game in the last 10 or 15 minutes and were caught out. “I think that’s understandable with the fans urging us on and the lads wanting to go and win the game. “You’re going to take a few more risks, especially at home. “But we’re starting to look more solid, which has been part of our downfall this season.”