Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has praised the League of Ireland teams flying the flag in Europe, after a string of impressive performances in recent weeks.
"It has indeed been a good week," he told RTÉ's Game On this evening. "They're only first legs, so I eagerly anticipate next week. All three ties are in the balance."
On Tuesday night, Bohemians secured an impressive 2-1 win over Greek side PAOK in the Aviva Stadium.
Last night, Dundalk conceded a late goal and drew 2-2 away to Dutch side Vitesse, while Shamrock Rovers got a late goal of their own to beat Albanian side Teuta 1-0 in Tallaght Stadium.
If the trio progress through this third round of Europa Conference League qualification, they will face a play-off with the chance of reaching the lucrative group stage.
Kenny - who attended the games at the Aviva and in Tallaght said that European clubs are the "yardstick" for Irish clubs to measure themselves against and said "it's there for three clubs".
"You'd think that they're all capable of achieving it," he said. "Shamrock Rovers probably have the best chance [based on the draw]. All three clubs are capable of getting there."
The Ireland manager praised the young Bohemians team that impressively beat PAOK, lauded 17-year-old Aidomo Emakhu for his winner for Shamrock Rovers and added that while Dundalk will have been disappointed to concede late to Vitesse, that tie is still "in the balance for next week".
Kenny also said it would be better to have live TV coverage of the big European games, "no doubt about it".
Looking ahead for Ireland
After a disappointing set of results in Ireland's World Cup qualification group - including a 1-0 home loss to Luxembourg - stern tests await next month.
A game away to Portugal (and all-time goal-record chasing Cristiano Ronaldo), will be followed by fixtures at home to Azerbaijan and Serbia.
Those two games at the Aviva Stadium will be the first in front of home fans since Kenny became Ireland manager.
He said that having supporters cheering on the team will make a difference to the players.
"People want to go, shout and get behind the team," he said. "People are very proud to support Ireland. Players have missed the support. The game itself is nothing without support. That level of passion inspires the players.
"[The Azerbaijan game] will be our first game with a home support. It should be special."
On the injury front, Kenny said that Derby midfielder Jason Knight (ankle) and Sheffield United full back Enda Stevens were doubtful but the prognosis for Bristol City winger Callum O'Dowda was more positive, and Kenny added that he was hopeful Robbie Brady would have a new club soon.
