Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill was quick to praise striker Steven Fletcher after his goal helped the Black Cats to victory over Southampton yesterday.

Fletcher's 44th-minute strike ensured that Sunderland did not drop into the relegation places this weekend.

It was the 25-year-old's eighth of the season and O'Neill highlighted the importance of Fletcher's work.

"He has been fantastic for us, he really has," O'Neill said after the game. "His contribution to the club this season has been immense.

"It's not just that he scored a goal or two for us, it's the fact that he scores important ones too."

The result moved Sunderland into 15th place in the Premier League, four points above the relegation zone.