Irwin impresses as Irish hold Ukraine at bay

LIAM IRWIN, son of former Manchester United stalwart Denis, showed enough on his international debut last night to suggest he could become a regular fixture on the international underage scene.

In a game where chances were scarce, the gritty young Bolton Wanderers midfielder put in a decent shift during his 65 minutes on the pitch and is likely to retain his place for the UEFA U19 qualifiers in October.

Though his dad wasn’t present last night to witness his bow, the 56-times capped ex-Ireland defender is expected to attend Frank Cooke Park tomorrow for the second match of double-header friendly between the nations (1pm).