Marco Tardelli hails James McClean

Republic of Ireland assistant manager Marco Tardelli has said that he has been impressed by James McClean but isn't sure if he will get a starting place for Euro 2012.

The Sunderland midfielder burst onto the scene six months ago following the appointment of Martin O'Neill as manager at the Stadium of Light, and has put in a number of good performances that have earned him a national call-up.

While Tardelli is delighted with the 23-year-old's progress, he is unsure if it will be enough to warrant a big role in the team.

"He is a good boy. He wants to work because he knows he needs to learn many things," said Tardelli.

"He is strong physically and I think he will be for us a good player.

"I don't know. He is in the squad, but we have also other players like [Damien] Duff, like [Stephen] Hunt, like [Aiden] McGeady.

"Surely, he is the future, but maybe it is possible also this time."

McClean moved to Sunderland from Derry City last summer for £350,000.