The graduates who can grow on road to France

There’s no need to whisper it — the new Ireland manager is not so badly off for personnel if he picks the right players and integrates some new ones.

With a full 12 months to shape his team before the opening Euro 2016 qualifier, the 11th man bestowed by the FAI with leading the nation’s fortunes has plenty of time to assess his selection options.

Granted, mainstays Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne – both heading towards their 34th birthday – can’t be relied upon to spearhead a push to reach the France-hosted finals.