MAC CAN CRACK IT WITH IRELAND
JAMES MCCLEAN’S international claims have been backed by Sunderland manager Martin O’neill.
Mcclean has made a huge impact in his first 11 games for the Black Cats.
And the winger is now in with a shout at a call-up by Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni for this month’s friendly against the Czech Republic.
And O’neill is certain that Mcclean is ready for a chance to prove he can do a job in the European Championships this summer. The Sunderland boss said: “James wouldn’t have a problem with a call-up.
“I can understand Trapattoni being very loyal to a group of players he’s worked with for last two years, but he should have a serious look at James.
“It seems those players will be the first on the list, but I’m not sure you can ignore Mcclean. He’s done fantastically well and it’s hopefully not a flash in the pan – I don’t think it is.”