Trapattoni offers McClean hope

Sunderland winger given hope over long-term international future

Last Updated: February 10, 2012 6:31pm

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James McLean: The Sunderland winger has impressed since making his debut in December

Sky Bet

Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has indicated that James McClean is part of his long-term plans.

The Sunderland youngster will not make his international bow after missing out on the squad to take on the Czech Republic in February.

It was widely expected that the 22-year-old was going to be included after impressive form for the Black Cats this season.

The winger made his Sunderland debut in a 2-1 win against Blackburn in December and it was not long until he scored his first goal in a 4-1 victory at Wigan in January.

But Trapattoni has kept faith with his players who achieved qualification to the Euro 2012 tournament, although he has given McClean hope for the future.

Believe

He said: "I think all the squad deserve to come with us. They believe us and they know us.

"We have four or five other names, because we have no time to change. One is McLean.

"I spoke with him and I said, 'Congratulations, James, I wish you to come with us'. We now have insurance that he can play with us, and this is important.

"He said, 'When you decide, call me up'. I told him 100% he will be with us for the future. Now, I'm looking to consolidate."