Quinn backs McCarthy at Sunderland

Sunderland player-coach Niall Quinn is backing Mick McCarthy to make an instant impact if he is installed as Howard Wilkinson’s successor.

The 36-year-old, who won the last of his 91 Republic of Ireland caps under the no-nonsense Yorkshireman, knows just how he can inspire players and is confident that he will get the best out of a dressing room desperately lacking confidence if, as expected, he gets the nod.