Caitlin Hayes feeling the love & beating 'imposter syndrome'

Caitlin Hayes still feels like "the dork in front of the cool kids" alongside the Republic of Ireland's biggest names, but the 28-year-old is fast becoming a leader in her own right after a whirlwind three months.

Celtic centre-half Hayes bounced into Ireland camp on Monday off the back of a 13-0 destruction of Aberdeen in the Scottish Women's Premier League, chipping in with a trademark header at the Excelsior Stadium in Airdrie.

Just over a year ago she attended Ireland’s World Cup play-off against Scotland as a fan.

Now she’s an automatic starter after securing citizenship in September and immediately going into the side for the UEFA Nations League clash against Northern Ireland at the Aviva Stadium.

Assured, physical and a real threat off setpieces, Hayes looks made for international football. But she's taking nothing for granted as the challenges come thick and fast.

"I was watching the World Cup and willing [Ireland] to do well," she reflected ahead of this week’s games against Hungary and the North.

"It was just incredible watching them on that stage, it was the stage they deserved to be on. I watched them at Hampden Park when they played Scotland and qualified and that was a massive high. I actually went to that game and froze, but the joy within me heated me up.

"It was great obviously, and from September onwards I had slight imposter syndrome that I’m in with this group. I feel like the dork in front of the cool kids!

"I’m just thankful to be here and to have the opportunity. I get time off at Christmas and that’ll be my time to kind of unwind and reflect. I’ll probably need the whole of next year to reflect on this last couple of months of being within this squad. Long may it continue."

Hayes has been an excellent