Trap’s squad selections these days tend to be as predictable as a Liveline moan, but here are five players that could and perhaps should be in the Ireland squad this week.
Wes Hoolahan
It’s been three years since Giovanni Trapattoni called Hoolahan up to the Irish squad, but the Canary midfielder is now more deserving of a place than ever because his star has skyrocketed in the intervening period. The creative inspiration for Norwich’s promotion to the Premier League, Hoolahan has looked completely at ease in the top flight.
Because of his build and lack of defensive nous, he is never likely to be a Trapattoni favourite, but the current Irish squad are crying out for someone with Hoolahan’s creative instincts, even if it is only to change a game from the bench.
David Meyler
The former Cork City man has had a horrendous time with injuries in recent years, but despite a glut of midfield arrivals at the Stadium of Light in the summer, he remains a key part of Steve Bruce’s plans. Meyler is energetic, he loves a tackle (he sent Wayne Rooney spiralling skywards – fairly – at Old Trafford on Saturday) and is a more dynamic alternative to the statues currently occupying the centre of the Irish midfield.
Off the field, he also enjoys regular back and forths with the gorgeous Georgia Salpa on Twitter, so he goes down as a winner in our book.
Joey O’Brien
It’s hard to believe that Joey O’Brien, who made his debut for Ireland under Stan aeons ago, is still only 25 years old. Like Meyler, O’Brien’s career has been an injury plagued one to date, but he has been rejuvenated under old boss Sam Allardyce at West Ham, playing regularly in the back four as the Hammers fly high in England’s second tier.
Joey O’Brien used to be a Stan favourite, but don’t hold that against him
Anthony Pilkington
Pilkington could definitely be filed under the Plastic Paddy category, but then again the likes of Simon Cox, Jonathan Walters and Sean St. Ledger aren’t exactly from the Guinness-swilling, shillelagh-wielding school of Irishness either.
A former Irish under-21 international, Pilkington has already scored four goals for the Canaries this season, including a cracking effort past Shay Given against Villa at the weekend. Ireland aren’t exactly short of options on the wing, but Pilkington can operate centrally if required and at 23, his best years are still ahead of him.
Robbie Brady
Brady is probably one for the future, but the Irish under-21 sensation could emerge as a potential wildcard for the Euros next summer if we can get past Estonia.
He has struggled to maintain his impressive early-season form on loan at Hull City, but he showed enough in the opening weeks to identify himself as a man who will go far in the game. A precocious winger with an eye for a spectacular goal, Brady is definitely one to watch.
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