JOEY O'Brien has been given the perfect birthday present, his first call into the Republic of Ireland senior squad.
The Dubliner, who is 20 today, is one of six uncapped players named by new Ireland manager, Steve Staunton, for the March 1 friendly against Sweden at Lansdowne Road.
Midfielder O'Brien, a product of the Wanderers academy, has excelled as an emergency right-back, delighting manager, Sam Allardyce, who gave him his first Premiership start in the home victory over West Brom in October.
"Joey has come on in leaps and bounds and is now an integral part of the team," Allardyce said. "His call is a recognition for all the hard work he has been putting in."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article