Jon Walters believes James McClean can be the Republic of Ireland's new talisman.

The West Bromwich Albion scored a match winning brace as Martin O'Neill's Boys In Green eventually beat Moldova 3-1 in World Cup qualifying on Sunday.

Depute getting himself into hot water throughout his career, McClean can be Ireland's next hero following the retirement of Robbie Keane, according to national team colleague Walters.

"He can be a bit stupid with what he's said in the press down the years, but he's learning," the Stoke City forward said.

"There are no egos in this group and James is a good lad, we'll keep him right.

"He can be that (talisman). He works his socks off on the left - sometimes on the right - and it's not an easy position.

"It's unforgiving when you have to chase back a lot but he got the plaudits on Sunday and I'm delighted for him. We needed that in the second half."