Martin O'Neill receives "overwhelming" support

Martin O'Neill has admitted that he has been overwhelmed by the amount of support that he has received from fans since he was appointed manager of Sunderland.

The Irish boss was given a vocal welcome at the Stadium of Light ahead of his first match in charge against Blackburn Rovers on Sunday, a game which the Black Cats won 2-1.

Reflecting on the reception that he has been handed, O'Neill told the club's official website: "It was overwhelming. Naturally I was taken.

"I'm delighted to be here and I hope I'm here for some considerable time. If I am it means we'll be doing well."

Sunderland's next match is a trip to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.