Di Canio praises Toffees ahead of weekend clash

Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio has praised Everton boss David Moyes Credit: ITV

Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio has praised Everton and manager David Moyes as the two sides prepare to go head-to-head in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Italian said the Toffees are "effective" and "a side that I like", and highlighted Moyes as "a very good manager" after guiding the Merseyside club to 'Top 8' finishes in eight of the last ten seasons.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's match at the Stadium of Light, Di Canio said:

Despite their 3-0 win over North East rivals Newcastle United last weekend, Sunderland are hovering just three points above the relegation zone.

A result on Saturday would significantly boost their chances of Premier League survival but in order to achieve that the Black Cats must overcome their Everton hoodoo. Sunderland haven't beaten the Toffees in any of their previous 16 league encounters - with their last victory being a 1-0 win in December 2001.