Chris Coleman claims Sunderland are a totally different team with Paddy McNair involved

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Sunderland midfielder Paddy McNair has made just 11 appearances so far this season.

Chris Coleman has told the Shields Gazette that he feels Sunderland are a different team when Paddy McNair is involved.

McNair has missed much of this campaign with injury, which has been a major blow to the Black Cats.

The 22-year-old has made just 11 league appearances all campaign, but could come back into Sunderland’s starting line-up for the run in.

And Coleman feels that McNair offers a lot to Sunderland when he is off the treatment table.

“Having Paddy McNair changes things somewhat, we haven’t had those legs and physical power,” Coleman said.

“When we have him playing we are a different team and it is good for Goochy and George, those type of players, to have him in the team, good for all of us.”

Sunderland will need to put together their finest run of form over the season in their final six matches, if they are to have any chance of staying up.

Coleman’s side recently beat Derby County to spark some optimism, but a defeat against Sheffield Wednesday on Monday has been a hammer blow.

Sunderland are now eight points adrift of safety, with time running out to save themselves.

Sunderland are next in action at the weekend, when they take on Leeds United at Elland Road.