Sunderland boss Steve Bruce admitted after Monday's goalless draw with ten-man Blackburn that his team was too reliant on goals from Darren Bent.
The England international, who only played at Ewood Park after passing a late fitness test on a groin injury, has netted five of the seven goals the Black Cats have scored so far this term.
Bruce's side failed to break the deadlock despite Rovers having ten men for more than half the match following Chris Samba red card in first-half stoppage time for bringing down Danny Welbeck.
Bruce said afterwards:"We can't keep relying on Benty to score a goal. We have to come up with some goals from somewhere else. It's frustrating.
"It was an even contest and arguably Blackburn were better with ten men. We've created enough chances and, on another day, would have taken one or two.
"There were some very good signs though. I thought my two centre-halves and goalkeeper were excellent. We have the makings of a good young side."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email
