SUNDERLAND manager Alex Neil is keen to reign in the fans expectations of the Championship and admits there are games that they will be under the cosh.

The Black Cats kicked off their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Coventry City. After getting off to a flying start in the game through Jack Clarke’s header, the Black Cats were put under pressure from the Sky Blues which eventually told when Viktor Gyokeres stunning solo goal levelled the game late in the second half.

In the manager’s book, it went down as a solid point but there was a feeling of frustration that they couldn’t hold onto the three points. However, the manager was quick to relay just how difficult the level of Championship football.

Neil said: “What we’ve got to understand is that points are obviously really important so we all want to see us running after the ball and everybody tearing about but unfortunately, there are some games that can’t happen. Because if you do, you are going to get damaged.

“The last thing I wanted to do was set off on a negative tone. I wanted to make sure we were trying to be positive in what we were trying to do.

“We certainly had our moments today. We know there is things that we can certainly do better but all in all, I don’t think that a point is a bad result for us.”

The Black Cats return to action this weekend when they make the long trip to Ashton Gate to face Bristol City in the Championship.

Neil has had a full week on the training ground with his players and does not have any injury concerns from last week’s draw at the Stadium of Light.