Sunderland midfielder James McClean has admitted that he is still adapting to becoming a key player for Sunderland.

McClean burst onto the scene last season with a series of impressive performances, but the Republic of Ireland winger has revealed that he has struggled with the extra attention that has been paid to him during the current campaign.

"This time around I know I haven't reached the heights of last season. But I can turn that around and get back to where I was last season, maybe more. I want to top last season's performances," he told The Express.

"A lot of attention comes my way on the pitch compared to when I first broke through and no-one had heard of me. I could play with a bit more freedom then, but now the teams all know what they can expect from me.

"That is something I have to realise. Of course I'm going to get paid more attention but it's down to me to get back to the levels I was at last season and maybe I can do that with the help around me and the coaching staff. But it's mainly down to myself."

McClean scored his first Premier League goal of the season on Tuesday as Sunderland recorded a 3-0 victory over Reading.