Paddy’s in U23s

PADDY McNAIR is ready to hand Sunderland and Northern Ireland a major boost.

The former Manchester United defender’s comeback is planned for Tuesday, when the Black Cats play an Under-23s match against Hertha Berlin.

McNair, 22, will play for 45 minutes of the Premier League International Cup tie.

He has been out for 11 months after rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament against Hull City.

McNair’s return will give boss Simon Grayson a versatile player who can operate in midfield and at right-back and the centre of the defence.

And Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill will be pleased to see McNair resume his international career.