Former Hull City and Fleetwood striker Jon Parkin says Lee Johnson can achieve hero status at the Black Cats.
Speaking on TalkSPORT as part of the Papa John's Trophy third round draw.
The Wearsiders will face League Two side Port Vale in the next round which is due to take place the week commencing January 11.
Parkin, who conducted the draw, said that Johnson must be given time at the Stadium of Light.
He said: "It's such a massive football club if he goes in there and does well he'll be an absolute hero.
"For one reason or another it hasn't happened for manager's who've gone in there.
"He needs to dismantle the football club but will he get the opportunity - time will tell."
The new head coach registered his first win at the helm of the Black Cats with a 2-1 win away at Oldham. Johnson made three changes to his side which was defeated by Wigan at the weekend.
Anthony Patterson, Jack Diamond and Callum McFadzean started for the Black Cats as Johnson got a better look at his side.
Dion Sanderson had been in line to feature - only for the head coach to realise he was cup tied.
Parkin said that Johnson will be taking time to asses his squad. He said: "No disrespect but the lower you go - people are watching the Premiership and the Championship every week so he may not know all the players who're in the squad.
"He'll assess his squad and win games."
