Sunderland boss Roy Keane is backing Roy O'Donovan to make an international breakthrough for the Republic of Ireland.

Keane told the Sunday Sun: "You get what you deserve in football and his attitude is spot on, he works really hard and it would be great to see him get capped.

"This is his first year as a professional at a Premier League club and I am delighted he is in that initial squad - but whether he will make it into the final selection, I don't know.

"Roy knows he has a hell of a lot to do but, with his attitude and his desire, he has a hell of a good chance.

"He has been brilliant this season, but we will see a much bigger and stronger Roy next season. We won't really see the full benefits that Roy brings until then."