Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips hails Luke O'Nien response, backs massive role after derby mistake | OneFootball

Kevin Phillips has praised Luke O'Nien's response to his derby mistake against Newcastle, saying the Sunderland captain showed his character in the aftermath.

According to Sunderland Echo, the former Black Cats striker said he expected nothing less, pointing to O'Nien's confidence and honesty, and hailed how he brushed off the error to deliver a near man of the match display without another misstep.

He added that he sees O'Nien playing a massive role on and off the pitch. He highlighted the respect the club captain commands, and felt O'Nien has shown he can play at Premier League level and in intense atmospheres.

O'Nien accepted responsibility for the concession and apologised to team-mates. He said he leaned on leaders, including Granit Xhaka, as he faced abuse while taking long throws, then put the mistake behind him to help provide a platform after the break.

The Newcastle match marked his 11th first team appearance of the season, after a shoulder injury delayed the start of his campaign.

Source: Sunderland Echo