JURGEN Macho, branded Sunderland's 'calamity keeper' after several high-profile errors last season, has vowed to capitalise on his brave decision not to walk out on the club in the summer by establishing himself as the club's first-choice goalkeeper.

Macho, 25, will make only his sixth Premiership start at Charlton Athletic tomorrow as Howard Wilkinson looks for his injury-hit team to deliver his first victory as Sunderland manager.

The Austrian remains on the transfer list after Peter Reid, who signed him on a free last year, decided he was surplus to requirements after just one season on Wearside.

But after assured displays against West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers, Macho has taken the first steps towards shaking off his unwanted tag.

And with Thomas Sorensen and Thomas Myhre both injured, Macho - who was criticised for his performance in last season's Stadium of Light draw with Charlton - has the opportunity to present a case for his continued inclusion.

He said: "You do get down when you're not in the team and the manager puts you on the transfer list.

"In that situation, there are only two things you can do: either you can walk away, or you get your head down and work.

"I'm pleased I chose the second option. I trained as hard as I could and always believed I would get my chance, even if it was on the bench. In the end it's paid off.

"When Thomas Myhre arrived, it wasn't the best news for me, but what could I say?

"Peter Reid made it pretty clear he wanted another keeper but I decided I would fight for my place.

"Howard Wilkinson has spoken to me about how important it is that I give my all for the next few weeks, but he didn't need to say anything.

"I know there is pressure on me but I prefer to look at these games as a great opportunity.

"It's up to me to prove that I'm worth my place in the team. I have to show people I am capable of doing the job consistently, from the first minute to the last, every week.

"I've got to take chances like this one. A month ago, I was the third-choice keeper; now, I'm first choice."

Wilkinson has been impressed by Macho, whose handling has been sound in Sunderland's last two games and who appears more confident than when he deputised for Sorensen last season.

The Black Cats manager said: "I can't blame Jurgen for either of the goals he's conceded and he's done everything else that has been asked of him.

"I'd have thought he should be relishing this opportunity. He's in pole position now and if he wants to make the position his own, it's there for him.

"He's on the transfer list as well, so it's like being in the shop window at Harrods for him.

"If he becomes the first-choice keeper on merit, I'd have to do something about him being on the list."

Macho can sense a more upbeat feeling at the club following the arrival of Wilkinson and Steve Cotterill early last month.

Even though Sunderland will begin the game at The Valley in bottom place should Bolton avoid defeat away to Birmingham City today, Macho insists they remain supremely confident they can avoid relegation.

He said: "The mood is better now than a month ago. There are some very positive signs around the place, the players are working hard, and if we can stick together we can get ourselves out of trouble.

"If you're in our position at this stage of the season, every game is vital, and we're looking for points all the time.

"I'm confident we will pick up points and we can't let the pressure get to us.

"After Bolton and West Ham, this weekend's match at Charlton is another six-pointer, but it doesn't really matter as long as we perform."

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