Reid positive despite omission

Sunderland midfielder Andy Reid has not given up on his dream of playing for the Republic of Ireland once again.

The 27-year-old Dubliner has fallen out of favour with national boss Giovanni Trapattoni, much to the astonishment of many of his compatriots.

Trapattoni last night insisted once again he has not discarded Reid, with whom he had a difference of opinion in Germany in September last year, for good.

However, having called QPR’s Martin Rowlands into his squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Montenegro in the next week in the absence of the injured Steven Reid, Darron Gibson and Damien Duff, the message remains clear he continues to be surplus to requirements for now, at least.

Reid, who is in fine form for his club, is philosophical about his exile, but is determined to force his way back into the Italian’s plans.

He told the Journal: “I have no control over being selected for Ireland – the only thing I can control is to perform for Sunderland.

“That is the only response open to me. I can’t sit in my house and worry about not getting into the Ireland squad. I don’t pick the Ireland squad.

“I’m just concentrating on giving everything for Sunderland and hopefully the Ireland manager will notice my performances.

“As far as I am concerned, my Ireland career isn’t over.

“I love playing for Ireland and if the opportunity came to play, I would be delighted.”