Bruce hails ‘staggering’ versatility of O’Shea

SUNDERLAND manager Steve Bruce believes John O’Shea’s “staggering” versatility will be a huge asset to Sunderland this season.

The Black Cats signed the Republic of Ireland defender and Wes Brown from Manchester United for £6m (€6.6m) last week and Bruce expects O’Shea in particular to be a huge asset as Sunderland look to build on last season’s 10th-placed finish.

“The versatility of John O’Shea is quite staggering,’’ Bruce said.

“He has played right-back, centre-back, left-back and in midfield for Manchester United.

“Having players who are versatile is crucial at times when you do come up against injuries.’’

Bruce has also revealed Irish midfielder David Meyler will return to full training next month after spending part of the summer undergoing specialist rehab in Vermont, America following his latest knee ligament injury.

The 22-year-old Corkman originally suffered horrendous ligament damage in April last year, and was only a few games into his comeback when he suffered a similar — if not so serious — injury in January.

“We are not looking for him to join in (training) for another four or five weeks,’’ Bruce said.

“David went to America and did fantastically well, they are very pleased with is progress.

“David is running well and you would never think he had suffered such a serious knee injury.

“He has certainly benefited from being in Vermont and let’s hope it does the trick.”