James McClean to start for Republic of Ireland?

Republic of Ireland assistant coach Marco Tardelli has hinted that Sunderland winger James McClean could be given a starting role for his country at Euro 2012.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a successful first season in the Premier League since joining the Black Cats last summer, and Tardelli has praised the powerful winger.

"He is a good boy. He wants to work because he knows he needs to learn many things. He is strong physically and I think he will be for us a good player. Surely, he is the future, but maybe it is possible also this time," Tardelli told reporters.

Ireland meet Bosnia-Herzegovina in a friendly on Saturday.