Darren Randolph’s Irish dream

THE task is onerous but the rewards could be well worth it. Not only does Darren Randolph have to do enough in the remainder of the season to retain his spot in the Republic of Ireland squad, the Motherwell keeper has to turn in the level of performance which could displace Shay Given in goal by the time this summer’s European Championships.

Even if he succeeds in those aims, the hard work will only just have begun. Drawn in Group C alongside Spain, Italy and Croatia, the Republic of Ireland will have an almighty job to progress to the knockout stages. “If we don’t top the group we’ll be disappointed!” he joked. “We would have maybe hoped for some not-so-good teams. It will be a tough group obviously with Spain and Italy in there. You have to look at Croatia for the win.

“We’ve played Italy three times and managed to beat them once, so we’ll a lot of confidence for that one. Spain will be difficult game – they are the World and European champions. It will be interesting to see how it all pans out.

“I think I’m pretty close [to making the squad] and, if I can finish the season well, hopefully I can force my way in. We have a couple of friendlies before we go away and maybe the manager will put me up a couple of places. But just to be a part of the squad – even if I’m just in the stands, would be brilliant. That will be in the back of my mind for the rest of the season.”