We'll go down fighting says Sunderland boss

Sunderland could finally be put out of their Premiership misery on Saturday -- but caretaker boss Kevin Ball want to see the Black Cats go down snarling

Sunderland could finally be put out of their Premiership misery on Saturday -- but caretaker boss Kevin Ball want to see the Black Cats go down snarling.

Ball's season of woe could come to an end if they lose at Everton while fellow basement strugglers West Brom pull off an unexpected victory at the Hawthorns against Liverpool.

But though Sunderland's relegation has been a formality for weeks -- they are 14 points adrift of second bottom Portsmouth -- Ball has urged his squad not to throw in the towel until it is mathematically certain.

"It's not going to be easy," he predicted as he assessed Sunderland's chances at Goodison Park. "But what I have been stressing to the players is their pride is at stake - and they are playing to win.

"A lot of people presume the atmosphere is like a morgue with everybody walking around with their faces down.

"At times you can understand people being like that, because of what has happened this season - but that has not been the case with the players.

"They come in quite bright and breezy which is what you would expect. They are professionals, and it's a great job.

"There are still points to be won. If any of the players came in with their faces like a slapped backside, I would be quite inclined to tell them to turn round - because they would be no use to us.

"I am aware we could be relegated this weekend. But I only want to focus on the Everton game - that's the most important thing."

With just two victories and 10 points to show from 31 games, Sunderland are on the way to being the worst Premiership club in history.