Republic of Ireland forward Chiedozie Ogbene admits it is "a privilege" to help lead his country's next generation after head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson included nine uncapped players in his squad to face Grenada.
The Republic conclude a 10-day training camp in Murcia, Spain on Saturday with their first fixture against the tiny Caribbean nation, who are 163rd in the FIFA rankings.
Lincoln midfielder Jack Moylan and Newcastle teenager Rory Finneran are among those hoping to make their first senior appearances for the Ireland, while Ogbene – who was on loan at Sheffield United from Ipswich this season – has thrived in a leadership role during camp.
The 29-year-old told the Football Association of Ireland’s official website: "For me, it’s been a privilege. I try to show my responsibility in how I carry myself every day – my work rate, my professionalism on and off the pitch.
"It’s very important to make sure the uncapped and newer players feel comfortable so they can play freely. I’m just trying to set a good example.
"This week has been full tilt, everyone’s been at it. The standard has been very high. This week is valuable for us to have a week of good preparation without a quick turnaround in matches.
"It’s given everyone a chance to understand the team tactically and it’s been a great week for team bonding."
Hallgrimsson confirmed Tottenham teenager Mason Melia would be handed his first senior Ireland call-up for the upcoming friendlies against Qatar and Canada.
Ireland squad to face Grenada: Max O’Leary (West Brom), Josh Keeley (Luton), Killian Cahill (Leyton Orient), Dara O’Shea (Ipswich), Eiran Cashin (Brighton), James Abankwah (Watford), Mark McGuinness (Sheffield United), Tayo Adaramola (Crystal Palace), Will Ferry (Dundee United), Jayson Molumby (West Brom), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Conor Coventry (Charlton), Andrew Moran (Preston), Rory Finneran (Newcastle), Adam Idah (Swansea), Tom Cannon (Sheffield United), Chiedozie Ogbene (Ipswich), Millenic Alli (Portsmouth), Jack Moylan (Lincoln), Aidomo Emakhu (Oxford).
