Troy Parrott's time in Excelsior giving him a 'chance to try a different style of football'

BACK ON TRACK: Ireland's Troy Parrott celebrates after scoring the winning goal. Pic: ©INPHO/Nick Elliott

Having guided Southampton back to the Premier League last month, Will Smallbone started the summer by helping the Republic of Ireland back to winning ways.

With an injury-hit home squad missing a number of first choice regulars, Euro 2024 bound Hungary were beaten 2-1 in what was a lacklustre contest.

Adam Idah’s first half opener was the Boys in Green first goal since November 2023 on their way to handing their opponents a first loss in 14 matches.

Troy Parrott’s injury time winner then gave interim-boss John O’Shea his first victory at the third time of asking.

“Last year, we had some good performances. But didn’t get them over the line in terms of a result. But tonight was massive for us to get it over the line against a big team who are going to the Euros. It’s a positive (home) campaign for us" beamed man of the match Smallbone after the success.

Despite it being an end of season friendly, it was a spicy affair with some strong tackles being put in by both countries. There were no less than 26 fouls and five yellow cards shown in the second period.

“There’s no such word as a friendly when it comes to representing your country. Every game is as big as the next one. I’m really happy we put in a good performance and got a positive result” explained the 24-year-old who was winning his eighth international cap.

The playmaker claimed a fantastic assist to set up Idah’s header in the opening half to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.

“Doc (Matt Doherty) played me down the (right) line. And I thought as long as it beat the first man, I thought it’s got a chance to get to Adam. And he did the rest with a great header.” 

After a long season at club level with the Saints that saw them overcome Leeds United at Wembley, Smallbone’s match fitness stood to him.

“It’s been a long season for me personally. I’ve played a lot of games which I’ve been very happy with. And another one tonight. I am really happy to come in and put in a positive performance to help the lads get the win.”   

Meanwhile, match-winner Troy Parrott continued his flying scoring form for Excelsior in Holland by sealing the victory with his fifth international goal.

But the Tottenham striker conceded “Before this season (scoring goals) had been difficult to come by for me. It’s one area I kind of struggled a bit. To see all the hard work paying off is nice.” 

The 22-year-old Dubliner bagged two hat-trick in three play-off games before linking up with the Irish squad.

On his loan move to the Rotterdam based side, the striker stated “I’ve loved it. I think it’s helped me a lot. It’s given me a chance to try a different style of football. I feel it’s suited me, and I’ve done well from it.” 

Looking ahead to what his future may hold at Spurs, Parrott said “I think it’s too early and hard to say now. It’s been a hectic few days for me, going from club straight into international. I just want to get through the Portugal game, have a holiday and go from there.”