Erin McLaughlin ready to take things to the next level

Erin McLaughlin says the pieces are falling into place as she looks to take her club and international ambitions to the next level.

The Donegal attacker has been around the Republic of Ireland squad since before the World Cup, featuring in the friendly against Zambia but failing to make Vera Pauw's final panel.

She shone off the bench in last Friday's 5-1 UEFA Nations League win against Albania, and looks ready to really push hard having impressed interim boss Eileen Gleeson.

"I think being part of that World Cup preparation was a huge experience for myself," said McLaughlin, now in the third year of a teaching degree.

"Obviously for me not getting to the World Cup was disappointing, but the experience was amazing. And I feel like now this is my second chance to come and redeem myself and show what can I do.

"I was realistic. We had a break from the league when the World Cup was on so I took my time, went to Donegal and had a rest and then came back after with full focus on being better and just giving it my all really."

McLaughlin was a key figure in Peamount's SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division title glory this year.

Hailing from the picturesque seaside village of Culdaff, the 20-year-old is now gleaning lessons from two of the country's outstanding players as she looks to further improve her game.

"Just being around world-class players like Denise O'Sullivan and Katie Taylor - that's almost unreal itself," she said when reflecting on her first experiences around the senior camp.

"Being around that atmosphere, the environment of a professional set-up... I suppose there are other young girls looking on at you and you realise you can be a role model for them as well.

"So you’re taking all that in your stride and into your