Bolo: Black Cats can be European contenders

Dec 6 2009 by James Hunter, Sunday Sun

BOLO ZENDEN believes Sunderland can repeat Fulham’s transformation from relegation strugglers into European contenders.

Roy Hodgson’s side dodged relegation on goal difference the season before last, but climbed a massive 10 places to finish seventh in the Premier League and qualify for Europe last term.

And Zenden says Sunderland – who avoided the drop on the last day of last season – can follow Fulham’s lead and push for a top 10 finish and a European place this year.

“If we could do what Fulham did, it would be a major achievement,” said the Dutchman, who is set to figure against Fulham at Craven Cottage this afternoon.

“But it’s something to work hard for because in the Premier League nothing comes to you automatically.

“As a club, you’re always trying to move forward. We all know what happened last year here and one of our main goals is to stay clear of the relegation battle this time round.

“Looking at the squad, I think a reasonable goal would be to finish in the top 10. But at the same time you have to try to get into a European spot.”

Sunderland’s trip to Fulham is the first of six games for the Black Cats in December, and Zenden says this is the most crucial month of the season for all Premier League sides.

He said: “We’re in a good position now but December is the decisive month because there are so many games.

“You have to work really hard and see where you are in January.

“There are six games this month which is a lot of points to play for and it can make a hell of a difference.

“It’s still a bit early to start talking about where we might finish – let’s see where we are in January.

“We still have a lot of work to do. We’re not yet where we want to be – we’ve been a bit too inconsistent away from home.

“If we want to finish in the top 10, we have to do something about our away record.

“Playing nice football is great but sometimes you have to grind out a result away from home.”