Man of the match James McClean has admitted he played through the pain barrier in the Republic of Ireland's crucial World Cup qualifier win over Austria.
The Derry winger was the hero in Vienna as his second-half strike proved to be the difference between the two Group D sides.
However, McClean said he was lucky to be on the field after tearing a muscle in his back earlier this week.
"I went and got an epidural on Tuesday and it's done wonders," McClean revealed.
"I'm delighted I managed to play for as long as I did."
With McClean you get the feeling he would run through walls for his side, and he admitted it would have taken a lot to keep him out of the tie.
"Playing for this country means everything," he added. "If there is a chance I can play I'm not going to shirk it."
Having scored twice in Ireland's previous qualifier win away to Moldova, McClean again proved his worth to the team with his well-taken goal just after half-time.
The West Brom winger was quick to pay credit to his teammates David Meyler and Wes Hoolahan for the role they played in the goal.
"First and foremost it was great play by David Meyler, who I thought deserved the man of the match but I’ll not complain," McClean said.
"He's done great to win the ball and play it to Wes. I knew when Wes got the ball if I make the right run he's going to find me.
"Then it was just about making sure I hit the target."
After that, it was history as Ireland recorded a rare away win and moved to the top of Group D with ten points from four games.
