Cashin hoping for rub of the green in huge Israel play-off

Republic of Ireland Under-21 defender Eiran Cashin has said that the opportunity to make history against Israel in their European Championship play-off double-header brings feelings of excitement rather than pressure.

The Derby County player will be hoping to be part of the first Irish men's side at this age group to qualify for a major tournament, with the first leg set to take place at Tallaght Stadium on Friday before a trip to Tel Aviv next Tuesday.

Jim Crawford's side had a shot at automatic qualification in their final group game back in June, but a 4-1 loss to Italy in Ascoli meant that the play-off route provided a shot at redemption, and Cashin can’t wait for the game to come around.

"There’s no reason for us not to be confident," he said.

"I know it’s a lot of pressure, two big games, but there's a chance of making history, that’s the way we see it.

"It’s more excitement than anything that we can actually go and qualify and make history. I don’t think there is any reason to feel any doubt.

"We’re just going to give it us our best shot and hopefully we’ll qualify."

Cashin can justifiably feel that he deserves a bit of luck in these play-offs.

Qualifying through his Mayo grandmother, now residing in Leitrim, his Ireland U21 debut was delayed by paperwork issues.

His opportunities with Derby were also limited last year owing to a ruling about the number of players of 'professional standing' in their squad.

Throw into the mix the fact that the club was forced into administration for a period and dropped into League One and it has been a testing spell for the youngster, but he is hoping that such harsh lessons prepare him for future difficult battles on the pitch.

"It was a tough time. I got a call-up [with Ireland], came in