Caoimhin Kelleher: Ireland can still top group

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher believes that Ireland still have the ability to go on a winning run that would secure top spot in their Nations League group.

The Liverpool man only found out the day before Saturday's opener in Armenia that he would be starting after Gavin Bazunu was ruled out with a back injury, but he was unable to keep out Eduard Spertsyan's long-range effort as the hosts earned a shock win in Group B.

Stephen Kenny’s side have a chance to respond quickly though as Ukraine, who lost a World Cup play-off game with Wales on Sunday, visit Dublin on Sunday.

"It was a setback on Saturday with the result but I think we still know we’re good enough as a squad, we’ve gotten some good results recently so I think we’re good enough to win every game remaining and top the group," Kelleher said.

Kelleher was one of Ireland’s better performers in Armenia on an occasion when few of Kenny’s players could be content with their showing.

On Monday, Bazunu was forced to withdraw from the squad for the upcoming games with Ukraine and Scotland with Bohemians goalkeeper James Talbot drafted in alongside Kelleher and Mark Travers.

That means it’s likely that Kelleher is set for an extended run in the team and while stressing his dismay about his team-mate's injury, he is hoping to make the most of the chance.

"It’s an opportunity for me now to get in and do well and try and hold onto the shirt."

He added: "The last few games have been really good for me, it’s great to get games at international level, it’s a very high level.

"It’s really good for my development. You don’t know what could happen, I don’t know what’s going to happen at club level obviously but if you keep performing you’re going to get the chance