Lucy Quinn driven by hunger to repay Pauw's faith

Lucy Quinn is desperate to repay the trust Vera Pauw has shown in her ahead of the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifier showdown with Sweden in Gothenburg.

Ireland are second in Group A behind the formidable Swedes, who they square up to next Tuesday (live on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player, 5.30pm). Taking the runner-up spot - and a with it a place in the play-offs - has been the realistic goal from the outset and the Girls in Green are well placed to achieve that as the campaign heads for its climax.

For Birmingham City attacker Quinn - whose grandparents hail from Sligo - it has been a whirlwind nine months.

She finally received her Irish passport last September after a process that had lasted five years, and went straight into the squad for the friendly against Australia.

Quinn's free-kick led to the opening goal just two minutes in, Ireland went on to win the game 3-2, and she's been a mainstay in the side ever since. Good things come to those who wait.

"Your relationship with the manager, wherever you go, is the most important thing," she said when reflecting on that first call-up.

"They have to have faith in you and believe you can play an important part in the team. As soon as I came in [Pauw] made it very clear that she was so excited to have me here and get me involved.

"It's about taking that pressure and running with it."

"Starting in that first game [against Australia] she didn't need to say anything - she'd instilled me with a lot of trust. She has faith in my ability. That gave me confidence but also gave me responsibility to go out and perform.

"I was just thrilled to be in with the squad, even just training with the players that are here. Obviously getting my passport last minute was unexpected and I didn't expect