Seb Larsson says it is vital that Sunderland show plenty of growth this season after a tough 2014/15.

The Black Cats eventually finished 16th on the Premier League table thanks to a successful relegation battle late in the season and it is important that they do not drop below that result in the new term.

Swedish midfielder Larsson has a realistic approach to the recently commenced campaign as the Wearside outfit strive to climb away from the bottom three and into a respectable mid-table position.

"I don't think we're going to be playing European football next year but we have to have a better season than we had in the last two years - I honestly think we can do that," he said.

Sunderland will look to avenge their opening weekend loss at the hands of Leicester City when they host Norwich City at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.