Irish youngsters urged to follow in John O’Shea’s footsteps

Colin O’Brien has cited the decorated career of John O’Shea to illustrate how much of a springboard the U17 European Championship finals can provide for his current squad.

The Corkman has led his side to a second quarter-final in a row and tonight at Chesterfield’s Proact Stadium they meet a Netherlands side tipped to lift the trophy on Sunday. Irish fans can watch the young stars as RTÉ 2 are broadcasting the game live.

Ireland will need to produce their best display of the season to cause a shock but, whether they make the semi-final or not, O’Brien has pointed to the experience gained as crucial to their long-term career prospects.