'Sunderland still believe but top two is a big ask'

Former Sunderland striker Marco Gabbiadini says that ending the season in an automatic promotion spot will be asking a lot of the young Black Cats squad.

"You can tell that they have that outside thought that they can break into the top two, but it will be a big ask from where they are at the moment," Gabbiadini told BBC Radio Newcastle.

Sunderland are currently eight points behind second-placed Sheffield United and six below Burnley in third.

And Gabbiadini sees the benefit of the Black Cats entering a play-off scrap for promotion.

"Anyone can win a play-off. It's a shootout and anything can happen," he said.

"There's so many scenarios that it's going to be an exciting end to the season.

"I hope the lads get what they deserve and they do deserve a crack at a play-off final. I think that would be a big highlight for them and above expectations."

You can listen to Gabbiadini's full thoughts and more on the Total Sport podcast.