Gus Poyet, Sunderland’s manager, has sung the praises of former Manchester United defender, John O’Shea. The Irishman is the Sunderland captain and Poyet is impressed with what a big player he has become for Sunderland.

A lot of players leave Man United and disappear, but not John. He is still an international and a big player for us and his country. That is why he is captain. It was an easy decision to make him our leader.