Paul McShane is stunned his call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad has come so soon.

The 20-year-old Wicklowman left Manchester United last month to find first-team football in a hope that one day he would end up in the senior national squad.

That target, he admits, has come about much quicker that anticipated but the no-nonsense defender - who has excelled at Irish under-21 level - is now keen to establish himself as a regular feature.

"I came in from training and had some messages on my phone from a few of the under-21 lads and my mates back home," he says of his call-up ahead of the qualifiers with Cyprus and the Czech Republic.

"It's a dream come true.  I'm over the moon.  I've had a bit of luck getting into the team here and it's gone well so far.

"Now the call-up to the Irish team has topped it off.  It's all panned out nicely.  But it's a surprise it's happened so quickly because I've only played a few games for West Brom.

"But I'm delighted to be in," he adds.  "I just have to do my stuff now as it's a great opportunity.  Steve Staunton is a legend with people my age and it's flattering to be selected by him."

With one eye on the 2010 World Cup campaign, Staunton is busy building a team for the future and it is on that basis that McShane has made the leap.

"Paul McShane is in because of what he did with the under-21s but also for what he's done with West Brom," the manager says.

"He's done very well, coping no problem, and if we're looking forward for the next four years, which I want to do, he's the type of player we need coming through."

McShane left Old Trafford - after loan spells at both Walsall and Brighton - last month and has impressed in the West Brom side this season when deputising for injured skipper Curtis Davies.

He has signed a three year deal with the club.