Cyrus Christie: I’m always learning and trying to improve

Cyrus Christie knows the score. The Middlesbrough defender isn’t harbouring any illusions about a long-term residency on the right side of Ireland’s back four.

Once Seamus Coleman returns from his broken leg Christie will be the loyal understudy who slips back into the wings.

None of which is to say that he is happy to accept his lot. To sit and wait for Coleman to leave the international stage. The Killybegs man is still only 28 so Christie knows it is up to him to close the gap with the Irish captain and regular right-back.