Forde loving life as number one

The goalkeeper who took the scenic career route, travelling via such less than glamorous football way stations as Galway, Derry, Cardiff and Millwall, has finally arrived at his destination of choice, at the seasoned age of 33.

“It’s massive, you know, when somebody like Trapattoni turns around and says that you’re the country’s number one,” says David Forde.

“It’s a massive shot in the arm when it’s someone of the manager’s calibre. It’s big for me. I’m delighted to play for my country, it’s something I always wanted to do. I’m just delighted.”