Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill insists Simon Mignolet is as good as any goalkeeper in the country.

Mignolet has developed into a key figure under O'Neill and his manager does not believe he gets the credit he deserves, arguing he has become every bit as impressive as Manchester City's Joe Hart.

"He's been fantastic for us, absolutely splendid," said O'Neill. "There are parts of his game he wants to improve on, but I tell you he is as brave as a lion. He's been as good as anyone in the Premier League this season.

"He made two great saves against West Ham to earn the team a point and two more against Wigan last weekend which were incredible saves.

"We would have gone two down if it wasn't for Simon's saves in the first half. He kept us in the game big time and maybe his work has gone a little unnoticed.

"When I look at Joe Hart I see an excellent goalkeeper, his performance for Manchester City against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League was sublime, but Simon is playing just as well."