PLAYERS THROUGHOUT THE League of Ireland can take inspiration from Graham Burke’s breakthrough at senior international level.
That’s the view of Cork City defender Shane Griffin following the Republic of Ireland’s 2-0 defeat to France on Monday night, in which an 11-year wait for a home-based player to be capped by Ireland came to an end.
Burke was introduced from the bench by manager Martin O’Neill to replace Callum O’Dowda in the 70th minute at Stade de France. In doing so, he became the first SSE Airtricity League player to represent the Boys in Green since Joe Gamble in 2007.
The 24-year-old Shamrock Rovers attacker has scored 10 Premier Division goals this season, including a superb strike in last month’s 3-0 victory over City.
“I’ve played against Graham in the league and I thought he did well [against France]. He held his own and didn’t look out of place at all. He look very composed on the ball,” Griffin said.
“It’s great to see a League of Ireland player there. It shows that you can go into that environment from playing in the league and not look out of place. It’s promising.”
Burke is due to head back to his club for Friday night’s meeting with Dundalk, before returning to the Ireland camp for Saturday’s friendly against USA at the Aviva Stadium — a game which could also see an international debut for Bohemians goalkeeper Shane Supple.
“You see Martin O’Neill and [assistant manager] Roy Keane showing great interest in the league by going to the games,” Griffin said ahead of Cork City’s clash with Waterford at Turner’s Cross on Friday.
The former Reading left-back added: “If you’re good enough then I’m sure they’ll have no hesitation in bringing you in. It’s great to see.”
