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Kevin Phillips has praised Luke O'Nien's impact this term, likening him to Liverpool star James Milner.
The Sunderland star has been a crucial player for Lee Johnson's side this season and looks set to play a key role in the club's continued pursuit of a place in the automatic promotion spots.
O'Nien's value to the team has been massive with the player occupying the roles of right-back, right midfield, central midfield and most recently central defence where he's forming quite the partnership with loan star Dion Sanderson.
Discussing the player's impact, Sunderland favourite Phillips was full of praise for the versatile star.
Speaking to Football Fancast, Phillips said: "He's one of those players, a bit like James Milner that can just play anywhere.
"Yeah, he's a good honest lad and pro from what I hear, and he's a lovely kid who takes on board whatever the manager is saying.
"With the players that Sunderland have missed through injury, like the influential Bailey Wright, of course, he's had to step up and do a job, and he's done it while adapting very well at the same time.
"I think he's a huge player for them. He's every manager's dream to have one of those players that you can just rely on to play anywhere."
The verdict
What a player Luke O'Nien has been for Sunderland.
As well as being a reliable and versatile player, the 26-year-old has proven himself as a more-than reliable player at League One level.
The hope now will be that he can play a key role in helping the club to secure promotion.
Source