Promoted Norwich beats Sunderland 3-1 in Premier League

“I don’t want to mention names, because it was the whole team, except for one or two players”, added Advocaat.

“I always tell my full backs the way we like to play is for them to attack but first they must take care of their direct opponent”. There’s something wrong. That’s quite simple.

The key thing now is how Sunderland react – not just against Norwich, but over the next few games.

They were embarrassingly torn apart by Premier League newcomers Norwich City in the Wearside sunshine.

Poor Dick Advocaat must be already regretting that sudden U-turn after having initially decided to end his reign as a hero at the end of last season.

A much classier affair this time as Nathan Redmond and Wes Hoolahan combined to create space for Steven Whittaker to drive into the box and fire beyond the keeper.

Despite Sunderland goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon making two wonderful early saves from Robbie Brady and Jonny Howson, he was beaten after palming away a cross to Martin, who prodded home in the 26th minute.

The mood didn’t improve in the second half when the outstanding Nathan Redmond waltzed through to slot in a third.

The 32-year-old’s impact is on the wane but his loss would still be a blow to Advocaat’s men considering how light they are upfront following the recent sale of Connor Wickham to Crystal Palace.

That was the only frustration for Norwich’s delighted boss Alex Neil.

“We have Jordi Gomez and Adam Johnson injured and Danny Graham also has some minor problems”, said Advocaat in his pre-game press duties ahead of the weekend games. “The last game against Hannover was a little bit better, more organization, but there is no excuse for the way we played (against Leicester)”.