Martin O'Neill has backed Blair Adams to make the most of his move to Coventry.

The 21-year-old left-back joined the Sky Blues permanently last week following a successful loan spell.

Adams was a regular at reserve-team level for Sunderland but didn't make a competitive first-team appearance, although he did feature for the Black Cats during pre-season.

"Blair has his whole future ahead of him," said O'Neill, speaking before the weekend win at Wigan.

"It's been hard for him to break into the team here but he's playing with very good confidence now."

Adams made a winning start to his permanent stay in the Midlands over the weekend as he helped City to a 2-1 victory over Oldham Athletic.

Mark Robins' side are now outside the Npower League One play-offs only on goal difference and have reached the area final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

And O'Neill is confident Adams will enjoy a successful tenure at the Ricoh Arena.

"There's no reason whatsoever that he won't do very well indeed," he added.

"Just at the moment I couldn't find a place for Blair in the team; he's gone out and I think it's the right thing."