1. Séamus Coleman (Everton)
IRELAND’S LATEST CAPTAIN has thrived in his new role with the national team by steering his side to the knockout stages of last summer’s European Championships and a near-perfect start to the World Cup qualifiers.
Arguably, the country’s only current world-class player, Coleman’s range of skills, both defensively and offensively, deserve to be showcased on the biggest stage.
One of Everton’s prized assets, the right-back won’t come cheaply, but any club looking to sign the Donegal man can be assured they won’t be short-changed.
Transfer we’d like to see: a move to a Champions League club
2. Robbie Brady (Norwich City)
One of Ireland’s standout players during Euro 2016, the versatile Dubliner is believed to have been priced out of an immediate return to the Premier League.
The 24-year-old, who was linked with a move to champions Leicester City in the summer, has ensured his head has not been turned by potential suitors by continuing to be one of Norwich’s most important players this season.
The Carrow Road club are unlikely to want to sell Brady in this window, but should the right offer be coupled with a suitable replacement, then the Irishman’s stint away from the top flight may be shorter than expected.
Transfer we’d like to see: a move to back to the Premier League
3. Richie Towell (Brighton)
The former Dundalk star has had a limited role at the Amex since moving to Brighton at the beginning of 2016.
Disappointingly for the 25-year-old, a knee injury hindered his progress in what looked to be set for a promising first pre-season with the Seagulls.
Consequently, the 2015 PFAI Player of the Year has been linked with a loan move away from the club in order to regain his match sharpness.
Despite the Dubliner showing promise for Brighton’s U23 side in recent weeks, regular minutes in the Football League looks to be on the cards in order to boost both his short-term and long-term prospects on the south coast.
Transfer we’d like to see: a loan move to a Championship club
4. Conor Hourihane (Barnsley)
The 25-year-old Barnsley captain is one of the best uncapped Irish players plying their trade in England at the minute.
The Corkman, who was named the Championship’s Player of the Month for August, has matured as a player since being handed the armband at Oakwell in 2015.
The box-to-box midfielder has earned many plaudits for his all-action performances and his willingness to get on the ball to start attacks for his side.
While his ability to set up his teammates with his sweet left foot from dead-ball situations, was highlighted with his hat-trick of assists against Birmingham City earlier this month.
Hourihane’s contract with the Tykes expires this summer, and the club could look to cash in if they feel he is unlikely to extend his three-year stay. A move to a bigger club can only enhance his international ambitions.
Transfer we’d like to see: a move to a promotion-chasing Championship club
5. Chris Forrester (Peterborough United)
The former St Pat’s midfielder has developed into a fan favourite at Peterborough and is regarded as one of the best players in League One.
The 24-year-old’s fine start to life at the ABAX Stadium was rewarded with an extended contract and the captain’s armband last summer, in a bid to put off any potential bidders.
Martin O’Neill has said he will follow Forrester closely in the coming weeks, and although the Posh will be in the mix for promotion at the end of the season, Forrester already looks capable of testing himself at a higher level.
Transfer we’d like to see: a move to the Championship
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