Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat praised his team’s improvement in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Swansea, but insists they must strengthen before the summer transfer window closes.

The Black Cats picked up their first point of the season as they held Swansea to a draw at the Stadium of Light, courtesy of Jermaine Defoe’s second half equaliser.

The performance was a far cry from the one a week earlier when Sunderland were dismantled at home by newly-promoted Norwich, falling to a crushing 3-1 defeat, with Advocaat’s side unlucky not to take all three point after a far more organised display.

But the Dutch boss was unable to guide his side to a first win of the campaign and, while he admits they are improving, he is calling for reinforcements between now and September 1.

“I have a much better feeling,” Advocaat told the Northern Echo. “The way we played, with the spirit we showed last year, proved that we can get results.

“They responded very well, straight from the beginning in the dressing-room.

“But it has not changed (we need signings).”

Sunderland have been linked with a shock move for former AC Milan star Alexandre Pato, who looks set to leave Corinthians and has also been linked with Spurs and Stoke, however Napoli midfielder Jonathan de Guzman has reportedly turned down a move to Wearside.

Next up for Sunderland is a trip to Aston Villa on Saturday 29th August and they are priced at 4.50 to pick up their first win of the season at Villa Park.