Sam Brotherton believes now isn’t the time to make excuses as Sunderland under-23s look to banish memories from Monday’s defeat at Burnley.
The New Zealand international made his Black Cats debut at the start of the week, however, was unable to prevent the Lads slipping to a frustrating 5-3 defeat in the Premier League Cup.
While results elsewhere saw Elliott Dickman’s side secure their place in the knockout stages of the competition, Brotherton admitted his first outing in a Sunderland top was one to forget.
And speaking to safc.com, the 20-year-old held his hands up and admitted a much improved display is essential on Thursday at Blackburn Rovers.
“It was a hard match and a day to forget for all of us,” he said.
“I was happy to be out on the field because I have been here for a few weeks now and in that time I have done a lot of training.
“It was good to get some game time but obviously a day that could’ve gone a lot better.
“There will be a bit of a transition period as I settle into the team but there can’t be any excuses at the same time.
“I could’ve done better against Burnley, I hold my hands up to that, but I need to make sure on Thursday I do,” he continued.
“One thing about football that is good is that you always get a chance to redeem yourself and put things right.
“The next game comes around so quickly so I have got an opportunity to put things right.”
