Advocaat's pre-match conference: Manchester United

Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat has spoke to the press today ahead of the clubs clash against Manchester United. The Dutch manager comes head-to-head against his old friend Louis Van Gaal for the first time in English football, with the Black Cats still looking for their first league win of the season.

The Dutchman was in an optimistic mood, stating that confidence was still high in the dressing room and that he was hopeful of a good and close game on Saturday. Advocaat was happy with the midweek performance against Manchester City, and is backing his new players to come good once they have settled in on Wearside.

ADVOCAAT: "In the first 30 minutes we were good football-wise, but you can't make mistakes against world-class sides."

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2015

The former PSV manager was optimistic and stated that he would be happy with a draw against a United side who are battling for the championship. Jack Rodwell and Jermain Defoe are both doubts for the game at Old Trafford, with the duo picking up knocks in midweek.

ADVOCAAT: "If you have a draw there [Old Trafford] you have a great result. They are a team who will fight for the championship."

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2015

ADVOCAAT: "You have nothing to lose against United and if we are well organised, and try to hurt them a bit, then why not."

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2015

ADVOCAAT: "Rodwell is a doubt and Defoe has some problems with his hamstring, but I think he will be alright."

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2015

ADVOCAAT: "Last season we did a great job and everybody was positive, but we're still positive and we have a better squad than last season."

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2015