TOMMY MILLER admits Sunderland are coming to terms with the harsh reality that promising performances don't automatically mean vital survival points in the Premiership.

The Black Cats have gradually improved with each display in the top-flight but have still failed to record even a draw from their opening three matches of their comeback campaign.

And Miller - part of the midfield in all three defeats to Charlton, Liverpool and Manchester City - insists Sunderland would settle for a poor performance at Wigan if it meant three points returned with them to the North-East.

"It's all well and good saying we are getting better but we are still sitting at the bottom of the Premiership with no points. That in itself is disappointing but what would be worse is if we weren't creating chances," said Miller.

"The pace is frightening in the Premiership. You come up against high class players every week and I am, as the team are, all learning. We are getting there and I think the each game we have improved."

This is the first season where Miller is expected to make the most of his big chance in the Premiership - after leaving Championship side Ipswich in the summer on a free transfer.

And the Shotton-born midfielder, who was asked to play a more defensive role in the midweek defeat to City with Carl Robinson named on the bench, is relishing the chance to shine on Wearside.

"The Championship is a good league but the Premiership is a big step up," he said. "I have had four years in the Championship and I felt I was ready for the Premier. That's the main reason why I have come here this season and hopefully the decision will prove right.

"In the Championship you do get to know players and you can have a bit of craic with them. It's a bit different in the Premier, although I did manage to say to Alonso 'give me your shirt' at Liverpool."