Darragh Lenihan says replacing ‘Irish legend’ John O’Shea to make his national team debut is a moment he will always cherish.
The Rovers defender won his first cap for the Republic of Ireland in a 2-1 win over USA in Dublin when replacing O’Shea, playing his last game for his country, late in the first half.
Lenihan had a goal ruled out for offside, as well as another taken off him by Graham Burke when the striker turned in his shot on the goal-line.
But that couldn’t overshadow a proud moment for the 24-year-old who said: “I was filling some massive boots. If you were a young lad now and offered the career of John O'Shea you'd take it in a heartbeat.
“To come on for such an Irish legend, I will treasure that for the rest of my life.
“There was excitement – you come to the Ireland games and hope one day you’ll be out there.
“I will always have that memory and to win the game makes it feel even better.”
Lenihan was an unused substitute in the defeat in France on May 28, but did feature in Irish colours during Scott Brown’s testimonial on May 20 in a game against a Celtic XI.
He hopes playing Championship football with Rovers next season will boost his chances of adding to his caps after being around the squad for the last two international breaks.
“Being around the camp, I felt more comfortable as it went on and the more I can play with these Premier League players, the better I will become,” said Lenihan who became the first player from Meath to feature for his country.
“The boys have been brilliant with me, made me feel welcome since day one.
“The manager says you need to play at the highest level you can and at the moment for me that's the Championship.
“We know it’s going to be a tough challenge, we know that from previous experience, but I think our manager is very good, he knows what’s to be expected and sure he will have us in a great position.
“I always had aspirations to play for my country and play in the Premier League so I’ll keep working hard and leave no stone unturned and hopefully I can play in the Premier League.”
Next up for Ireland is their Euro Nations League games with Wales and Denmark. Lenihan will hope for a strong start to the season with Rovers in a bid to make the squad for the September matches.
And Lenihan is well aware of the challenges he faces.
He told the Irish press: “It will take a lot to stay in the squad so that's up to the manager. Saturday was my first game so I will do my best for the club and see what happens.
“It’s something I want more of.
“It’s a huge honour to represent your country and I need to keep working hard and improving my game.
“It was always an aspiration of mine to play for my country, it’s the proudest moment of my life without a shadow of a doubt.”
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