Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill is certain Brighton would make the right choice if they were to sign Paddy McNair.

The defender was impressive for his national side in a goalless friendly against Panama on Wednesday.

Sunderland, who were relegated from the Championship, are expected to sell the player, though they have refused Albion's first offer.

O'Neill said: "I hope his club situation sorts itself out. I know what he is capable of. His running power and quality is clear to see, and he is so determined to get back to the Premier League and hopefully he gets that chance. Paddy was class (against Panama).

"Paddy McNair is a Premier League player. The reason he isn't is because of his (knee) injury.

"He joined Sunderland when they were in the Premier League. He then had a bad injury and Sunderland were relegated. But you've seen the quality in the last six games of the season. He scored four or five goals."