Tears welling up in his eyes, Robbie Brady paused to reaffirm Ireland’s tendency of thriving in the face of adversity. It’s hardly surprising the trend has surged since his arrival on the scene given the personal history he’s endured in overcoming the odds.

There was a time Robbie Brady was spoilt for choice. Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City clamoured for his signature as he was identified as one of the brightest teenage talents in Irish football.