Breen promises to make up for blunder

SUNDERLAND skipper Gary Breen has vowed to atone for the error at Wigan which cost his side a chance to open their Barclays Premiership account for the season.

The 31-year-old defender was the man who gave away the penalty just seconds into the game at the JJB Stadium which allowed Jason Roberts to fire the home side in front and ultimately, to their first three points in the top flight.

It also condemned Sunderland to a 19th successive Premiership defeat - dating back to their last appearance in this division two seasons ago - and a fourth this season, leaving them bottom of the table without a point.

Breen, who along with club-mate Stephen Elliott will be on duty with the Republic of Ireland for their World Cup qualifier against France next week, was quick to admit responsibility but he also promised to make up for his mistake.

“I’m one of the more experienced players who was telling the younger lads the importance of keeping things tight early on and I’m the one who gives away the goal,” he told the club’s official website, www.safc.com.

“It’s very frustrating and hard to take for all of us and I feel terrible. I feel as though I’ve let everyone down, especially the players who showed tremendous character in trying to get back into the game and the fans who travelled down to support us.

“We bossed the game really, but my mistake has cost us dearly. All I can say is I’m determined to make it up to them. I find this a really bitter pill to swallow.”

Sunderland return to action after the break for international matches with a daunting trip to Chelsea knowing they will be cast adrift at the foot of the table if they do not register soon.

McCarthy wants further recruits before the transfer window shuts - he has brought in 11 players so far this summer - but could have defender George McCartney back soon.

McCartney, 24, has had a hamstring problem for almost a year but could return to the reserves on Thursday night at Manchester United.

“George should be involved against Manchester United,” said McCarthy. “He’s back in full training and not far from coming back.

“He’s had the problem for getting on a year and it is something that has had to be managed carefully. He’s been playing and training and then having a rest.

“The last port of call has always been an operation, but that hasn’t been deemed necessary and we have just been trying to manage the problem as well as possible.”