Sunderland forward Fabio Borini believes that this week is one of the "most important" in his side's season in their battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Black Cats secured a place in the Capital One Cup final last week as they beat Manchester United in their semi-final, but now face crucial league matches against Stoke City and bitter rivals Newcastle United in the next few days.

Borini told the club's official website: "It needs to be in the back of our minds now because we are professional and think about things game by game. We can't just think about one game.

"We have four or five games in between which are more important now to stay in the Barclays Premier League. It's one of the most important weeks of the season. We have got two games that are achievable to get three points.

"If we could get away with four or six points, then it would be a very good week and hopefully we can look forward to the last part of the season."

Borini has scored four goals for Gus Poyet's side this season following his loan move from Liverpool.