Roy Keane believes that “proper goalscorer” Scott Hogan would prove a great addition to the current Ireland squad.
And the Ireland assistant manager confirmed that Martin O’Neill looks set to step up his quest to convince the Brentford centre-forward to declare for the Republic of Ireland.
Watch full Roy Keane press conference here
O’Neill has been hit with a plague of injuries in the build-up to this week’s upcoming international games against Georgia and Moldova, but the manager is hoping to add to his much-needed striking options should the Manchester-born Hogan become available for selection.
The manager admitted last month that Hogan was on his radar and that an approach had been made through the player’s agent, and Keane confirmed at today’s press conference that O'Neill is looking to meet the player in the near future.
Keane also said that be believed that Hogan committing to Ireland would be mutually beneficial to both country and player: "He looks a really good player, a proper goalscorer,” said Keane.
“Please God, he would like to come on board with us because I think we would be good for him as well.
"The manager has touched base with the player and I think he is due to try meet up in the next few weeks.
“The manager is looking after that and it would be great to get him involved.”
Hogan qualifies for Ireland through three of his grandparents.
Meanwhile, Keane also confirmed that he remains open to the possibility of returning to club management, although he was coy when asked what kind of opportunity could persuade him.
"It all depends, it depends on the club," said Keane. "When I stopped playing, I didn't think I was going to go into management, but then a brilliant club like Sunderland came calling.
"It's all 'ifs' and 'ands'. It depends who comes calling - Real Madrid, Barcelona, Altrincham, Barnet...
"It's not in my mindset. I'm not one for networking, I don't have an agent, I don't apply for jobs and I never have. Maybe I never will do, but that might change in a few years - who knows?
"I'm committed to the job with Ireland and my mindset is to try get maximum points this week and win on Thursday night. Talking about other jobs is irrelevant."
