Collins happy with improving Ireland's form after wonder goal in Lodz

Player of the match Nathan Collins says his goal was opportunist and that he wants to use it to keep improving as a player.

The Burnley defender gave Ireland the lead in Lodz after a mazy run which saw him beat three Ukrainian players, before the defender finished like a centre forward, curling an effort past the goalkeeper with the outside of his right boot.

The visitors ultimately couldn't hold and had to settle for a draw which leaves them third in the group ahead of the concluding Nations League fixtures in September.

"I haven't watch it back, I need time to watch it back," he told RTÉ Sport afterwards when asked about his wonder goal. "I took it in the moment, in my stride, I seen what was open and I took it.

"If it was the last minute it would have been great because we could have got the win but we'll take a draw.

"We'll take that, they're a good team, but we know where we are as well.

"I want to be here for the long run and be the best player I can be. I want to set high standards for myself and be there best there is and keep improving."

Ukraine 0-1 Ireland - Nathan Collins puts the visitors in front with a sensational individual goal having delivered a 'masterclass' of defending in the first half hour #rtesoccer #UKRvIRL