Dons hitman Connolly still has time on his side

DAVID CONNOLLY was top-scorer among the Irish internationals in England last season with 24 goals in 28 games for Wimbledon, but he is honest enough to accept his goals at club level will not win him a regular place with Ireland — no matter how many he scores.

The challenge he faces on a recurring basis with Ireland is huge for it is extremely difficult to try and influence an international match in a relatively short time as substitute.

Such a role breeds frustration, of course, but the satisfaction of being a regular part of a successful international squad, the achievement of winning 36 caps with Ireland and of scoring eight goals, offer some compensation.