Robbin Ruiter says Sunderland will have a point to prove when they travel to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, as they look to put Boxing Day's disappointment behind them.
The Black Cats failed to replicate their recent performance levels at Bramall Lane and they were left wanting, as Sheffield United brushed aside Chris Coleman’s men.
Defeat ended a three-game unbeaten run and Ruiter admits the Lads weren’t themselves, but he refused to dwell and quickly cast his focus on Saturday’s trip to the City Ground.
“We were definitely not ourselves after the recent improvements,” said Ruiter.
“There was no fighting spirit like we had against Wolves and all that spirit was only around for 10-15 minutes in the second half.”
He continued: “We have got to talk about it and move on as quickly as possible because it is a big week.
“On Saturday we have Forest away and then Monday we have Barnsley at home, so we have got to move on quickly from this.
“We have to show character but let’s not start to be negative all over again, we had a really tough start to the season but when the new manager came in I think we have started to play better.
We have to step up and be bright, show everyone that this was just one incident and we won’t be like this every week.”