Sunderland goal delight for McClean

Former Derry City winger James McClean has been making an impression in the candy-stripes of Sunderland in the last couple of days, and capped off this spell with a goal in Tuesday night's 4-1 win against Wigan at the DW Stadium.

22-year-old McClean starred in the Black Cats’ last gasp 1-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, before retaining his place for tonight’s encounter with Roberto Martinez’s Wigan side, which included former Derry player Conor Sammon.

Speaking to Extratime.ie after the 4-1 win, McClean could barely contain his delight.

‘I’m absolutely over the moon. It’s a dream come true to be playing in the Premier League, but to score my first goal, it’s really indescribable.

‘When I seen David (Vaughan) whip it in, I just thought I have to make a connection here and hope it goes in. When the keeper made the save, my first reaction was simply to put the rebound away and thankfully I did.’

His goal gave Martin O’Neill’s side a 2-0 lead, after Craig Gardener had opened the scoring. Hugo Rodallega pulled one back for Wigan, before Stephane Sessegnon and David Vaughan wrapped up the three points.

McClean is one player who has stood out in the last two games, and he believes that his own self-confidence is one of the key factors in his performances.

 ‘Before the game, I just thought I had to go out and do what I have been doing. I’m blessed with the fact that I play with no fear and that I have confidence in my own ability as a player, as well as the team, and the gaffer really helps that too.’

Another element that has played a part in his performances is his new manager and fellow Irish man O’Neill.

‘He has come in and given everyone a new lease of life. He’s put confidence in the whole squad and he really is a remarkable manager and deserves a huge amount of credit.’

Although happy with his performances to date, McClean admits that he is willing to play any role that the manager needs him to, whether it be starting or on the bench.

‘I think I did enough on Sunday against Manchester City to secure a starting place tonight. However I know it’s a team game, and I just want to keep showing the gaffer that I’ll be ready when he needs me.’