Originally Posted by
Superhoops
No, not even highlights, no interest and even if I had, highlights are no way of judging a player. I have never criticised him playing for Celtic as I have never seen him play for Celtic. I have only ever seen him play for Ireland at all levels from U-15's through to seniors. I know he is still only 21 but he has 17 senior caps and ought to be producing for us by now. He certainly has not brought his underage performances through to the senior team.
Against Wales IMO he was no more that a 5, 6 at best. One good ball through to Keane, but he got caught in possession too many times and showed he cannot track back when opponents full/wing backs go forward.
Against Brazil, again IMO similar game to against Wales. Had one chance to put Duff through but delayed his pass too long and Duff ended up offside. In saying that no shame in not performing against Brazil but Wales was a game where he could have sparkled but didn't.
I've said it before but I could not care less how he plays for Celtic, but when he plays for Ireland I want to see him be an 8, 9 or 10 every game. He is not there yet, not but a long way.
His performances in this WCQ campaign will show if he is the real deal or not. While Duff is still in the picture, I'm not sure if Trapattoni will find room for both of them is his team.