Republic of Ireland defender Cyrus Christie believes he must continue his good form to ensure a place in Martin O’Neill’s squad for Euro 2016 after another solid display in the 2-2 draw with Slovakia.
Two first-half penalties from Shane Long and James McClean helped Ireland to 2-2 draw in tonight’s international friendly at the Aviva Stadium as they continue preparations for the European Championships in France.
The Derby County defender was selected at right-back in a team that saw 10 changes from Friday’s encounter with Switzerland.
The 23-year-old, making just his fourth international appearance and first since the memorable 1-0 victory over Germany last October, appears to be in pole position as Seamus Coleman’s deputy in defence, not that the player himself is taking anything for granted.
“Every game’s an opportunity,” he told RTÉ’s Game On programme on 2fm. “Every time I have pulled on a jersey for my country, I think I have played well.
“I’ve done myself no harm. I would have liked a bit more of the ball. You go through games where you don’t get as much of the ball as you would like, but at the end of the day it’s about the team performance and I think we performed well today.
“The manager is going to have thoughts for the Euros (squad), but I think I have performed well.”
Christie was an attacking threat, particularly after the interval, but was pleased with the collective showing against a side ranked three places above Ireland in 26th position in the world rankings.
“I think we played well, dominated possession, created chances. On another day we could have scored more.
“They are a good team, they qualified automatically in their group and we were the better team.”
Ireland’s friendly international with the Netherlands will be the final outing before the squad is selected and Christie may not be available to meet-up with the squad if Derby County reach the Championship play-offs.
The Rams currently lie in fifth and Christie hopes his consistent performances continue.
“I think I’ve had a great season for Derby but I’ve got to keep performing.”
