Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill is delighted for David Meyler over his Republic of Ireland debut.

Hs team-mates will have been just as delighted with O'Neill rating Meyler amongst the most popular figures on the playing staff.

O'Neill told safc.com: "David is a great character in the dressing room and on the training field - he's always got a smile on his face.

"Even I'm feeling grumpy myself, it's hard to imagine him being anything other than appreciative of the footballing life.

"He's had a torrid time with injuries so it's great to see him doing well.

"David is one of the most popular players in the dressing room, and I think deservedly so."