Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has admitted that he hopes John O'Shea will be fit for the Black Cats' match against Fulham on Saturday.

Despite a limited number of appearances for his club this season, the defender played the full 90 minutes of the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 playoff against Estonia on Tuesday.

"It is good that John is fit enough to be back playing for Ireland and I just hope that he has no reaction to that game," said Bruce.

Sunderland go into the match in 15th place in the Premier League table, while Fulham occupy 16th.