Izzet bemoaned Colchester's poor defending (Getty Images)

Colchester United's Kem Izzet admitted to being embarrassed by his side's performance in their 5-1 defeat by Norwich City.

The U's midfielder also said he felt "deflated" following the Essex club's biggest loss of the season.

Izzet told BBC Essex: "You can't come away to places like this and defend like we have.

"There was a lack of pride shown at times and pride is something we should always show."

He added: "When we defend like that, that's what happens against team like this.

"When you've got players like Dion Dublin and Jamie Cureton up front who can finish off chances like they have it's not a surprise."

U's manager Geraint Williams did not share Izett's belief that of a lack of pride was a reason for the defeat.

Williams said: "I think that's a bit harsh, and if that's what Kem feels then he's entitled to his opinion.

"I thought the spirit was there, I thought what let us down was technique. We didn't defend properly - we didn't defend situations properly, or individuals properly.

"They've created chances and in the final third looked as if they could score at will as the game went on. And that's why they got the two late goals."

The result left Colchester rooted to the bottom of the Championship table, 11 points from safety.