Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat was pleased with their 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.

Advocaat was happy with a point and sees some positives to build on when the league resumes next month following the international break.

He said: "For the majority (of the match) Villa were the better team and a point from an away game is good. I am pleased with the performance.

"We started well and scored but then gave an easy goal away, which gives the other team a lift.

"We did okay again at the start of the second half but then Villa took over again and we had problems with their wingers.

"We were better in the second half but we have to improve again.

"It's a shame some of the players are going away but it is something to pick up next time, in the next game."