John O'Shea has claimed that Steven Fletcher's goals will keep Sunderland in the Premier League this season.

The striker scored twice at Selhurst Park on Monday evening to give the Black Cats a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

Gus Poyet's side have won just two of their last six league games, but O'Shea believes that Fletcher can help them to turn their form around.

"We need to keep him fit. He's a big player for us," O'Shea told talkSPORT.

"Scoring goals in the Premier League is vital. He's going to be a big man for us and hopefully he can get into double figures. When you see him in training you can see what a fantastic player he is."

Sunderland are now two points clear of the relegation zone in 15th place.