Mangane must work on fitness

Martin O'Neill is convinced that Kader Mangane has the strength to make an impact at Sunderland, but he must first reach full fitness.

Senegal international Mangane is a towering central defender and O'Neill believes he will be a crucial addition to the squad, following his arrival on loan from Al-Hilal.

However, the Black Cats boss admits it may take some time before the 29-year-old is completely ready to be thrown into Premier League action.

"He's got a great physique and presence and certainly has what it takes to do the job," O'Neill said in the Daily Star.

"But it's fair to say that Kader's a little bit behind the rest of the lads in terms of fitness.

"Once he's fully fit, he'll be pushing for a start in a position where we've been really stretched of late."

O'Neill added: "Whenever a loan signing comes in from abroad, part of the deal is that there has to be an option at the end of the deal for a permanent signing and that's the case with Kader."