Republic of Ireland captain Kenny Cunningham has tipped Sunderland's Stephen Elliott to take the Premiership by storm this season, ahead of tomorrow's international friendly with Italy at Lansdowne Road.
Elliott is expected to start for Ireland against the Azzuri, in place of the injured Robbie Keane, and Cunningham has no doubts that the Sunderland striker has the ability to mix it up with the Italians aswell as being a hit in the Premiership.
"Stephen has impressed us all over the past six months, I really think he could make a big impression in the Premiership this season," the Irish skipper said.
"People talked about Andy Johnson and the way he exploded onto the scene last season, and I see Stephen in that category. He is the same type of player and has similar attributes. He is very strong physically and in terms of personality."
"He has a low centre of gravity, has quick feet, good movement, is a good finisher and I think he could have a big season for Sunderland. On the international scene he is certainly here to stay."
Cunningham also had praise for Clinton Morrison who he hopes will remain at Birmingham City, despite being pushed further down the pecking order during the summer.
"Clinton will very much play a part this season. People may feel the other players have a head start on him, but he has shown a lot of patience in the last couple of years, and that has often been rewarded," the Ireland and Birmingham captain said.
"When he has come into the team for any period of time he has really lifted us, and he gives us different options because he is a different type of player."
Cunningham insists there is no pressure on either Elliott or Morrison against the Italians, adding: "I think they will see it as a great opportunity to reinforce to the manager he has players who are more than capable of filling Robbie's shoes."
Cunningham was yesterday joined on the sidelines by Wigan midfielder Graham Kavanagh and Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given, who instead all enjoyed a session in the swimming pool.
Chelsea winger Damien Duff and Newcastle defender Stephen Carr were also rested after playing on Sunday, while Manchester City centre-back Richard Dunne pulled out of training with a stiff back, but should be fit.
