Speed sings the praises of forgotten man Reid

NEW Wales boss Gary Speed has lavished praise on exiled Irish international Andy Reid.

Speed had the Dubliner on loan at Sheffield United until just before both men left Bramall Lane recently and yesterday said he was surprised that Reid — who is now back at Sunderland — is deemed surplus to requirements at international level.

“He was an excellent player, technically probably our best player and he played every game he was available for and contributed well,” he said. He’s a Premiership player no doubt, and he did stand out in the Championship. His attitude also impressed me, off and on the pitch. He wants to do well and hopefully it won’t be too long before he’s back in.”

Saying he was a “little bit” surprised that Reid is no longer in the Irish squad, Speed added: “But Ireland is full of quality players. I find picking a squad is quite difficult, and Giovanni is having the same problem.”

Speed feels that the lack of game time being experienced by many Irish players could be to the international team’s benefit come the February 8 game at the Aviva Stadium.

“That’s a problem that we have ourselves, everyone not playing for their clubs but, in a funny way, it can work for you as well because it brings everyone together,” he said.

“Some of the Irish boys not playing for their clubs will be dying to play in the game. It can work for you but also against you. I’m looking forward to it. It’s the first game for me so there is added spice. And Ireland is a country I’ve always loved coming to.”