Richardson, Edwards and Reid have all spent time on the sidelines (Getty)

Sunderland boss Roy Keane has attributed their recent revival in the Premier League to the fact he has been able to draw from a fully-fit squad.

Andy Reid, Kieran Richardson and Carlos Edwards have all recovered from knocks and Keane feels the team has thrived with their presence in the side.

"Training has been more competitive, and players are fighting for their places," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"This has been the perfect time to get the squad back in."

Interview: Sunderland boss Roy Keane

We have to perform if we want to get a win in the Premier League because everyone is fighting for their lives Sunderland boss Roy Keane

Even with a seven-point cushion above the relegation zone, Keane is more than aware of how quickly the situation can change and has called for his players to be sharp ahead of the trip to fellow strugglers Fulham.

"It's been a good few weeks but that could change if we don't approach the game in the right way and we don't perform," he said.

"I think Fulham have had a few bad injuries, those players are coming back now and they've got one or two decent results of late.

"We have to perform if we want to get a win in the Premier League because everyone is fighting for their lives."