Ah, the Premier League. Boy, have I missed the countless annoying bird puns, alongside the obligatory Delia and mustard mentions in the media.

And then there's the referees.

Now we've got that out of the way, let's focus on the positives from the Crystal Palace game. Posts were hit, miraculous goal-line clearances were made and a perfectly good goal was disallowed.

It was an entertaining game. Well worth the time and money. The most disappointing aspect on Saturday wasn't the man in the middle – he's had enough exposure for one lifetime. It was the overall attitude of many around me.

It's was like some couldn't wait to get on the players' backs.

Just after we had gone 1-0 down, Alex Tettey was caught in possession by Johan Cabaye, and I heard a few cliched whines. 'Come on Norwich, 'Sort it out.' That sort of generic moaning.

'Oh don't start', I thought. First game in 29 degree heat, versus a Palace team that have spent over £40m since Alan Pardew became manager in the hardest league in the world. Apart from Robbie Brady, whose set-pieces on the day didn't justify his price tag, this was the Wembley squad which made us proud as summer punch that day in May.

Terms like 'freshening up' and 'adding competition' are used freely in pre-season but the season has started now and those internet rumours seem to have dried up. Which brings me on to the question of why haven't we added the much-needed quality yet?

We don't need too much. A striker, a winger and a centre-back would be plenty. But, at time of writing, this boost to the squad has yet to materialise.

I'm going to be blunt. Having thought about it and after watching the game, I have a theory.

That, through no fault of his own, Alex Neil's inexperience is somewhat responsible.

Despite his numerous strengths for a manager of such a young age, his biggest weakness could be the empty pages in his little black book of footballing movers and shakers.

For example, Cabaye, a fantastic player who was wanted by the Manchesters two years ago, was on Pardew's speed-dial. He could have gone to most clubs in the Premier League and I can promise you he didn't come to Palace for the luxurious surroundings of Selhurst Park. He obviously has a bond with Pardew, one the bigger teams couldn't compete with.

Alex Neil has plenty respect in the game, but sadly I don't see it stretching much further than Scotland currently. In 20 years' time, different story; but right now he doesn't have much sway and influence on those undecided and unsettled players choosing their next club.

Although he quickly brought in Tony Andreu, and that particular Canary wasn't 'cheep', I'm sure Delia would agree, he won't cut the mustard.

Oh no, what have I become?