Chris Hughton has admitted that his Norwich City side need to improve defensively if they are to pick up positive results against the Premier League's top teams.

Despite Grant Holt's opener, the Canaries suffered a 4-1 defeat at the hands of the European champions, who moved four points clear at the top of the table with victory.

Hughton has highlighted Norwich's defensive frailties as the main factor behind the loss, but the former Newcastle United boss was pleased with some of their attacking play.

"They showed the same type of quality in their finishing as we experienced against Liverpool last week. Against this opposition you have to be more sure at the back," he said.

"We should have done better with their first and third goals. But I'm pleased with some of what I saw in the second half as we created some chances."

Norwich have conceded 17 goals in their opening seven league games this season.