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Christie in action last night. Donall Farmer/INPHO
Impressive

Could Cyrus Christie be a decent option for Ireland at left-back?

The Derby County defender enjoyed a superb debut in the victory over the US last night.

HE MAY HAVE been earning his first Ireland cap, but Cyrus Christie played with the type of assurance you would expect from a seasoned veteran last night.

The 22-year-old Derby County man made his debut at right full-back in the 4-1 win over the US and excelled both defensively and going forward.

“I thought it went well and I think we got a good result in the end against a good American team,” sais Christie. “There were some great performances from the lads. Pearcy played well beside me, Clarky was brilliant and Robbie did well. Shay pulled off some fantastic saves too.”

“I’ve come and made my debut and it’s a fantastic achievement for me and a dream come true. It’s something you dream of as a kid. To put on the Ireland jersey was fantastic.

“He (Martin O’Neill) spoke to me about it before then he pulled me in yesterday and said I was going to start. I was ready to start and go out there and make my debut so I’m just happy I was able to play well.”

Ireland do not have a huge amount of cover at either full-back position and Cyrus is a welcome addition to O’Neill’s squad. On the right side, Seamus Coleman has become one of Ireland’s most accomplished players and Cyrus would have a battle on his hands to displace the Everton star.

At left full-back, Robbie Brady came in for Stephen Ward last night and, despite some positional uncertainty, put in a solid display which produced two excellent goals.

When asked if he is just as comfortable operating on the opposite side, Cyrus replied: ”I’d like to think I can. I don’t really practice it but I like to think I’m comfortable when I cut in and cross the ball on my left.

“I am comfortable with it and I wouldn’t say it is as good as my right but I can do a job.”

He also tweeted today:

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