Swansea striker Lee Trundle has pleaded with new Ireland boss Steve Staunton to hand him a starring role in the remodelled national team.
Since joining Swansea in July 2003, Trundle's goals have fuelled the club's revival and he has frequently championed his own case for a Republic cap.
Previous manager Brian Kerr ignored him but Staunton's appointment has handed the 29-year-old a fresh opportunity to stake his claims.
Trundle qualifies for the Republic through his grandfather and saw his chances apparently boosted over the weekend after Staunton hailed him 'a natural goalscorer' in an interview.
The Liverpool-born striker could earn a call-up for the Republic's first game under Staunton - a friendly against Sweden at Lansdowne Road on March 1.
Trundle said: "I was made up when I read what Steve said about me and hopefully the dream will come true at last. Steve made reference to John Aldridge being a late starter on the international stage and hopefully I can make a similar impact.
"I've always said that I've got the ability to play at the highest level and playing for Ireland would be the next step up.
"I've scored goals at every level I've played and feel the international stage would perhaps suit me better because the better players have more time on the ball.
"I just want the chance to show what I can do and hopefully Steve will give me the call for the friendly against Sweden," he added.
