Sunderland winger James McClean has said Martin O'Neill has injected a "new lease of life" into the football club following his arrival on Wearside.<br /><br />Under O'Neill the Black Cats have picked up 13 points from a possible 18, with Tuesday's 4-1 win at Wigan their third win in four games.<br /><br />"He's lifted everyone around the club," McClean told BBC Newcastle.<br /><br />"He's given us all a new lease of life so it's huge credit to him, he's a remarkable manager."<br /><br />O'Neill replaced Steve Bruce in early December, inheriting a side that had previously won just twice in 14 games.<br /><br />Meanwhile success at Wigan came just two days after the Wearsiders had stunned Premier League leaders Manchester City with a 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light.<br /><br />McClean lasted 89 minutes on his second start in succession before making way for Ji Dong-Won.<br /><br />"I actually came off with cramp, but it shows the fitness levels the players have at the club, the character," he added.<br /><br />"To put in performances like that, with 48 hours rest, it's unreal.<br /><br />"For Manchester City you motivate yourself, it's a big game, but to come here and beat anybody 4-1 away in the Premier League is outstanding."<br /><br />Former boss Bruce signed the 22-year-old from Derry City in August, and the winger has subsequently made five appearances, scoring once.<br /><br />/football on Youtube brings you the latest football news, transfer rumours and footballing gossip from the English Premier League and European Champions League.
