Paul McShane

By The Black Cats
January 15 2009

Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia has recalled defender Paul McShane from his loan spell with Hull. The Republic of Ireland international has been in outstanding form for the Tigers, playing 19 league and cup games for Phil Brown's side as they've taken the Barclays Premier League by storm.

Sbragia has took advantage of a clause in the season-loan deal, allowing McShane to return to the Stadium of Light in January, as he wants more cover at the back.

"We only had four fit defenders at Middlesbrough on Saturday, with (Phil) Bardsley being ill," said the Sunderland boss.

"That's not a situation I want to be in. Paul has been playing week in, week out in the Premier League, so he'll provide competition and cover for us."

McShane's first and last games for Hull were in wins over Newcastle at St James' Park - his debut in the league in September and his final game in their FA Cup victory last night - let's hope he can lead us to an inspired win at St. James' on the 1st of February

The defender, who turned 23 last week, has been playing at right-back for Hull, and scored in their 2-2 draw at Liverpool - he also played in their famous 2-1 win at Arsenal.

The Wiley Old Scot - Sbragia has left Hull - who have slipped into the relegation battle after getting off to a fantastic start in their first Premier League season and become rivals - without their first choice centre back.

It may also force Hull into making a move to sign McShane permanently.