McShane admits preference for role at heart of the defence

As of today’s paper going to print, Paul McShane had yet to convince Giovanni Trapattoni of his merits as an international centre back.

He started against the Spanish last night in Yankee Stadium at right-back and although he’s proud to play anywhere for his country, the fact nobody acknowledges his role in the centre of the Hull City defence this season is an obvious source of frustration for him.

Hull’s return to the Premier League wasn’t exactly straightforward at the end of their Championship campaign but, from a personal point of view, McShane, 27, is already on record as being completely satisfied with his contribution to the promotion effort.