Martin O'Neill is delighted with the way Sunderland fans have taken to goal ace Steven Fletcher.

The striker hit the net for the third time in two games during the 1-1 draw against Liverpool, converting Craig Gardner's cross from close range.

Fletcher put in a strenuous shift as Sunderland's lone striker and O'Neill is hoping there's more support for him on the way.

"I'm hoping as the season goes on and as the side gets stronger Steven Fletcher will not be such a lone figure up the pitch for us," he explained.

"At times I think it felt like that for him. We can get better and the link-up play will.

"Fletcher knows what he's doing in front of goal and that's very pleasing.

"The crowd have also taken to him, which is a great boost to his confidence."