Former Sunderland striker Phil Parkinson believes there is huge pressure on manager Phil Parkinson going into Friday's game against Fleetwood Town.

Phillips adds to Parkinson pressure

The English tactician is under severe pressure, eighth in the League One table with six wins and two defeats from their first 12 outings.

A trip down to Lancashire is on the cards for the Black Cats this evening, facing off with Joey Barton's side who are unbeaten in their last three matches (Fotmob).

Sunderland have only won once in November and with the club's takeover looming over his head, the pressure continues to grow on Parkinson. Their 1-1 draw against Doncaster Rovers last weekend leaves the North East outfit without a win in four games (Fotmob).

Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips believes that the manager will understand the situation that he's in and must start getting results to impress the new owners.

“It certainly will not help his situation if they lose against Fleetwood, let’s put it that way,” he said.

“I am not going to say that he should be sacked but we all know the business, Phil included. It is a big game for Sunderland on Friday because of where both sides are in the league. It could have been so different at the weekend. If they held on for the three points it would have been a great result away from home.

“Joey Barton has got Fleetwood flying. There is always a niggle between Barton and Sunderland because of his days at Newcastle – he will be desperate to win the match. Phil is not daft. He knows that the pressure is mounting with the takeover looming."

Phillips continued: “When new owners come in they often like to bring their own man in. Ultimately, it is about results on the pitch and if they were to lose tomorrow Sunderland could be some way off the top spot. It is a huge game for everyone concerned.”

Transfer Tavern Verdict

This match could make or break Sunderland's season, with their aspirations of returning to the Championship remaining high on the agenda.

Sunderland are already eight points off the pace and could be out of reach by Christmas if their form continues to slump.

As Phillips says, "if" the Black Cats lose tonight then that could be just about it for 'Parky' at the Stadium of Light.

And in other news, Sunderland fans unconvinced by William Storey's update on potential takeover.