Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has claimed that James McClean could be suffering from homesickness following a disappointing beginning to the new Premier League campaign.

The Irish winger impressed during his debut season for the Black Cats last season but has failed to replicate the same form so far this term.

O'Neill said: "I just think he's been a little bit homesick, that's my thought. James might not go with that.

"There's a difference to telling James to be a bit sensible but I don't think he's gone off the rails or anything. My concern is him playing well for us. If there's something off the field, then on a serious note I have to look at that."

McClean's made his debut for the club last December having previously been a regular for the reserve side prior to O'Neill's arrival.