THE late great Sutherland will man the corners of Ireland’s Olympic boxers in London according to his Dad.

Tony Sutherland said his the Beijing bronze medallist will be looking down on what he predicts will be a successful quest for medals.

Irish boxing lost one of its brightest ever lights and most loved characters when the talented middleweight passed away in September 2009, but his father believes his spirit will play a part in the upcoming games.

“Darren will definitely be there in the corner roaring them on. And Darren O’Neill in particular because he was a very good friend to Darren and kept him on his toes when they were in the seniors,” Sutherland said.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the team and although I am sure they will come home from London with medals, my biggest hope for them all is that they come home safe and in once piece.”