Michael Beale is hungry to prove to the Sunderland fans that his appointment as head coach was the right decision after succeeding Tony Mowbray in the role.
Beale, 43, has previously managed Championship rivals QPR and most recently Scottish giants Rangers.
There was a mixed response from Black Cats fans to his appointment, after he was sacked by Rangers in October.
"I think I'm the right person moving forward but I've got to earn the right," Beale told BBC Radio Newcastle.
"I've been given the job and what I do next is really important.