Bringing an end to Norwich City's defensive woes has been a key focus during the international break.

Centre-back Ryan Bennett acknowledges that the third-worst defensive record in the Championship is not good enough for a team hoping to push for a Premier League return.

He bristles at the suggestion that the Canaries have seen their season come off the rails because of a lack of heart though.

'We've worked on some things that we think we need to work on but I think as far as heart and all those things, the lads are working hard and if you'd joined us in training the last couple of days you'd realise that,' the 26-year-old said ahead of today's clash with QPR.

'It's not down to a lack of effort, that's just an easy thing that people say, but there are things we need to work on and there are things we're working on and I think we'll see that on Saturday.'

Asked to elaborate on the defensive issues being worked on, Bennett added: 'Generally all over really. You look at the goals we've conceded and the amount we've conceded of late, it all needs to be addressed.

'That starts from the front, right to the back, and that's something we've been working on.'

The former Peterborough defender insists City have not hit the panic button though.

'We're still in the play-off positions,' he said.

'We haven't had the results we've wanted but in five games time, a lot can change.'