It’s been a tough few months for Sunderland and David Moyes, whose supporters here in the Transfer Tavern haven’t been enjoying the season in the slightest!

After yet another defeat to Manchester United this weekend, things haven’t grown any easier for the Black Cats, who are languishing down in 18th in the Premier League table.

They’re struggling to put wins together and after 18 games, Moyes has only managed to pick up 14 points along the way, which is a massive worry for both club and supporters.

Their fans here in the Tavern are growing increasingly concerned and with January fast approaching, the need to bring in reinforcements is increasing by the game.

But with funds expected to be limited throughout the whole of the month, things could be set to get even tougher for David Moyes, who must be wandering what he got into when he signed at the start of the season.

So with things getting tough, we think there are some things that the Black Cats must not do with the window fast approaching- and here’s 3 mistakes they simply need to avoid…

They’ve got to keep a hold of Jermain Defoe

To the horror of the Sunderland punters here in the pub, there have been plenty of media reports linking Jermain Defoe with a move away from the club in recent weeks.

But one thing the Black Cats cannot do in January is be tempted to sell their prized asset, who is going to be their biggest source of goals throughout the rest of the season.

Funds might be tight and the temptation will be high but at all costs, they must keep hold of the former England star.

Moyes mustn’t risk it

Another tempting move when budgets are low is to try and risk it and bring in unknown players who could make or break a season.

But what Sunderland need are a couple of experienced pros who can help them get out of this mess, not a barrage of individuals who have little to no experience of how the Premier League works.

With the little money they have, Sunderland need to use it well.

Missing out on what they really need

Jermain Defoe is the main man at the Stadium of Light and whilst Victor Anichebe has come in and done a good job at times, Sunderland need to find another goalscorer.

Whether it’s a signing, someone from the reserves or development squad and just someone who hits a good wave of form, the Black Cats need to unearth a man who can bag a few goals.

What Sunderland really should not do, is miss out on the chance to find this man. If the opportunity arises, they must take it.