McClean salutes Irish fans and vows to do the best he can to put Italy out

The talented winger, who replaced Damien Duff mid-way through the second half in their 4-0 defeat in Gdansk, is hoping to be involved in Monday’s final Group C clash against Italy, in Poznan.

“I definitely hope this will be the first of many caps for me, it really has to be my aim. We have one more game against Italy left and we want to do well for yourself and go home with some pride and hopefully I can play a part in that as well,” stated McClean, who was speaking exclusively to Sentinel Sport after the game last night (Thursday).

“To make my competitive debut at the Euros and it’s against Spain, is something you dream about.

“We are obviously disappointed but they aren’t World and European championship for nothing and because of that I don’t think we should beat ourselves up too much.”

Once again the Irish supporters gave the former Derry City man a tremendous welcome, something which will live long in the memory of the youngster.

“It was absolutely tremendous, from my debut at the Aviva and now at the Euros the reception I got has been tremendous and because of that it gives me a huge amount of confidence.

“Our fans have been a great throughout the competition and they are a huge credit.”

The Black Cats winger also conceded that well wishing messages he has received from friends and families back home also gives him much pride.

“My phone hasn’t stopped with people ringing, texting and social networking sites giving me ‘good luck’ messages.

“Yeah its obviously and honour to represent to your country, but to know that you have that support behind you from your home town is overwhelming.”

In the wake of the defeat the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have paid tribute to the Irish fans.

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney, said: “The Irish fans have made many sacrifices to follow our squad and have been absolutely amazing.

“The abiding memory that we will take away from this match will be the many thousands of Irish fans singing the ‘Fields of Athenry’ right up to and beyond the final whistle.

“They are a credit to the game and to our country. On behalf of the FAI, the squad and management team I would like to thank them for their incredible support.”