Kevin Phillips hails Luke O'Nien response and backs captain for massive Sunderland role | OneFootball

Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips has praised Luke O'Nien for rebounding from his derby error and said the captain can have a massive role at the club, according to Sunderland Echo.

The 31-year-old’s mis-clearance led to Anthony Gordon opening the scoring at St James' Park last Sunday. O'Nien then delivered a combative display as Sunderland came from behind to seal a memorable win.

Phillips said he was not surprised by the recovery, describing O'Nien as a confident, honest character whose response did not let the mistake define him. He felt the defender was close to man of the match and faultless thereafter.

Looking ahead, Phillips sees O'Nien playing a major part on and off the pitch. As club captain, he is respected, and Phillips believes he has shown he can perform in the Premier League and in intense atmospheres.

O'Nien accepted responsibility for the error, apologised to team-mates and leaned on senior voices during a difficult spell, including while taking long throws amid hostility. He said their guidance helped him park the incident and provide a platform for the team after the break.

His start at Newcastle was his 11th first-team outing of the season, following a shoulder injury that kept him out at the beginning of the campaign.

Source: Sunderland Echo