McClean tipped for top

Sunderland boss Martin O’Neill has backed James McClean to make Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad for the Euro 2012 finals.

O’Neill admits he hadn’t heard of the 22-year-old Derry-born midfielder when he took charge at the Stadium of Light but has been wowed by the youngster since then.

“I think he’s more than capable of going,” O’Neill enthused of a player who has started the Wearside club’s last seven games, playing a significant role in their renaissance since being handed his Premier League debut in December’s victory over Blackburn.