Sunderland winger Emanuele Giaccherini believes that the hectic fixture schedule is perfect for his side to get back on track in the Premier League following their defeat to Hull City on Boxing Day.

The Italian returned to action against the Tigers following a lengthy injury absence, but could not stop Gus Poyet's side from falling to a 3-1 loss at the Stadium of Light.

However, Giaccherini is insistent that the Black Cats can bounce back, starting with their trip to Aston Villa on Sunday.

"It's a good thing that we have another game so soon after that result," he told the club's official website. "There's more games coming up, it gives us the chance to bounce back.

"Next is the trip to Birmingham to play Aston Villa and we need to win. We must forget about the Hull City result and focus on getting something out of that game."

Sunderland are 14th in the Premier League ahead of their match against Villa.