IRELAND SQUAD: WOLVES DEFENDER Kevin Foley admits that Friday's senior international debut at Craven Cottage was the realisation of a dream he has had since childhood, but it seems his performance was not strong enough to play him into contention for a place in Saturday's starting line-up against Bulgaria.
“It meant everything,” says Foley of his participation in Friday night’s 1-1 draw with Nigeria. “It’s what I’ve played football for since I was nine years of age. You cannot get any higher than playing for your country and it’s something that I am really proud of. I waited a long time to get a cap and I’ll just see how it goes from here.
“The manager,” he continued, “said ‘well done,’ to me and to all the lads who won their first caps. I’m not sure about next week but I’m delighted to have gotten off the mark. If it takes time, then let it take time. I will just have to wait and see. I know there are a lot of players out there who can play at right back. And whatever happens it’s been a fantastic year for me. We got promotion and now this cap.”
The young defender played an important role in helping Wolves get back to the top flight but on Friday he was partly responsible for the goal that gave Nigeria their lead early on and was some way short of his best, something Trapattoni suggested would mean a further wait before he gets to build on his first start at this level.
“We have options,” said the Italian. “Friday was a friendly game, Saturday is a qualifier and, there are some, at times, dangerous reactions to an important game. Against Nigeria, for example, I have seen him (Foley) play better, sometimes he was nervous. I know him and he likes to look up, he is like (Steve) Finnan, normally he looks in front, but this time he passed the ball back, although it’s normal in a game like this (his debut). But, for your information, we have other options. Now, I have to think about this, and other positions. And in this position, other players.”
Trapattoni seemed a good deal more taken with the performance of Sean St Ledger which, though not flawless, was solid and composed. With Finnan still unavailable and Paul McShane’s grip on the right back position less than secure the Preston North End centre back might just have done enough to persuade the Italian coach to start him and hand John O’Shea the number two shirt.
“I’d booked my holidays,” laughed the 24-year-old. “But to be involved in the squad was a bonus and to play was a dream come true. The pace surprised me but playing alongside someone like Richard Dunne made it easier.”
On the other side of the defence, Kevin Kilbane is likely to return having been rested on Friday night. The manager said, meanwhile, he was still waiting for confirmation of the fitness of Darron Gibson and Caleb Folan but that the Hull City striker was certainly likely to be available having been allowed to rest a slight knee injury.
