Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill was pleased with Adam Johnson's goal in defeat at Everton.
Johnson paid back some of his £10million transfer fee with a smart volley.
"That will help Adam's confidence. He put in a very strong performance, particularly in the first half," O'Neill said.
"It was a good performance by Johnson, Stephane Sessegnon was outstanding for long periods and I am disappointed we didn't see it through for any of the points."