Vito Mannone: Sunderland 'desperate' for first league win

Mannone has been beaten six times in six league games this season, but has kept two clean sheets

Goalkeeper Vito Mannone is happy with Sunderland's defence but says the players are desperate to record a first Premier League win this season.

Mannone, 26, has kept two clean sheets and conceded only six goals in six games, while the winless Black Cats have drawn five in the top flight.

Gus Poyet's side drew 0-0 in their last two games against Burnley and Swansea.

"We wanted to reduce the goals and we've done that, but we're desperate to win," Mannone told BBC Newcastle.

"We are happy about the clean sheets - once we get three points I think we'll have a good season."

The Italian has managed to retain his first-team place in spite of the summer arrival of Manchester City's Romanian goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon to the Stadium of Light.

Poyet also strengthened his squad with defenders Sebastian Coates, Patrick van Aanholt and Billy Jones, new players that Mannone feels he is working well with in his back-four.

He added: "We're building a relationship and they know what you are there for and what you can give to them.

"I know what they can give to me, so it's like 'give and take' in all situations."