Meyler reveals his unlikely inspiration

David Meyler has reflected on the joy of his international breakthrough, thanking an unlikely source for inspiration.

Nick Colgan was probably Roy Keane’s lowest-key of all the Irish signings at Sunderland, not making a single appearance, yet his presence left an impression on Meyler.

Corkman Meyler finally made his Ireland debut a week ago against Oman after battling his way back from two serious cruciate knee injuries.

He said: “I treat people how I’d like to be treated. Nick used to come in every day and say ‘we’re living the dream’. That’s what we’re doing.

“Growing up, all I ever wanted to do was play football, and I have the chance to do that every day. I can’t complain.

“I’ve had two major setbacks with my knees, but they are minor things in the long run. I come in, work hard every day and enjoy it — I’m still living that dream.”

On his belated Irish bow, the 23-year-old is still cherishing the experience.

“It’s been a long time coming, and with the hard work I’ve put in, it was nice to get something at the end of it,” he said.

“My mother and father have given me so such support, as has my sister.

They have been fantastic.

“The staff at Sunderland have been brilliant and so have the fans. I would meet people in the street and they would say ‘we can’t wait to see you back’. Little things like that help so much.

“I was delighted to be picked — I’m a proud Irishman and my whole family were there to see me play.

“It was nice to get 90 minutes too after playing about an hour against Swansea and half an hour each against Arsenal and Morecambe.

“I already knew a few of the lads to say hello to, and with the three other Sunderland players there too, it was very easy to feel part of the group.”