Iron manager Nigel Adkins hailed the contribution of midfielder Michael O'Connor after his side's 1-1 home draw with Cardiff City.

Although the United chief was disappointed to see his side concede an unfortunate deflected equaliser late in the game, Adkins was pleased with the performance of his side.

Northern Ireland international midfielder O'Connor put his side ahead in the early stages with a stunning free-kick and the Scunthorpe boss feels the former Crewe man is getting better and better.

Speaking on The Iron Player, he said: "Michael is a top, top player. I have no doubt that in the next few years he will go on and have an excellent international career.

"I am delighted that we have brought him to the club. We have just been looking for consistency from him.

"He has everything you need to be a good footballer.

"We've played a narrow midfield four for a long time this season, at the moment we're playing with two in there and he's flourishing.

"Michael can only get better. He's got a range of passing to die for and he keeps getting stronger and fitter.

"If he can add defensive consistency to the game then I believe he can only better in time."

See much more from Nigel Adkins, Michael O'Connor and David Mirfin on The Iron Player.