Sebastian Larsson has insisted that it is important for Sunderland to make a good start to the new Premier League season.

The Black Cats struggled at the beginning of last campaign but the arrival of Martin O'Neill in the winter had the desired result as the team avoided a possible fight against relegation.

Larsson is determined to improve on last season and believes that producing good form in their early matches could be key to their success.

The Sweden international told the club's official website: "Obviously we wanted to get off to a much better start as it's always tough when you don't begin the season well.

"Hopefully we can get a good start and push on from there. If we can do that we know what we're capable of - a bit of confidence can really push us on."

Sunderland are believed to be close to completing the signing of Manchester City striker John Guidetti.