Handy Andy makes his case for slot beside Cunningham

ANDY O’BRIEN emerged as the big Irish hit from the entertaining confrontation with World champions Brazil at Lansdowne Road and must be given a chance to establish himself as Kenny Cunningham’s regular partner.

The Newcastle United defender found it difficult to hide his real feelings when he spoke on the eve of the match of the need to be patient in his efforts to break into the team, but now he has a genuine claim to be regarded as first-choice next time out.

O'Brien was first capped by Ireland against Estonia on June 6, 2001. In the meantime his appearances have been few and far between and he was making only his ninth international appearance against Brazil.