Sunderland defender Billy Jones has revealed that he is eager to put a disappointing first half of the season behind him and push on in 2015.

The 27-year-old joined the Black Cats from West Bromwich Albion in the summer, but injury problems have restricted his time in the team.

However, the full-back is hopeful that he can become a key player for Sunderland in the coming months as they look to pull away from the relegation zone.

"It has been a frustrating start to the season and when I arrived I set the target of playing at least 30 games, whilst also improving on my recent seasons within the Premier League," he told the club's official website.

"Unfortunately that wasn't to be but there is no time to dwell and I'm firmly focused on having a big impact in the second half of the season, both personally and as a team. I'm really looking forward to the remainder of the campaign and for me the season starts now."

Sunderland are currently in 16th place in the Premier League table, one point clear of the drop zone.