O'Sullivan vows to deliver performance for 'fantastic' fans

Denise O'Sullivan has promised the Republic of Ireland will pick themselves up off the canvas to deliver a performance for the fans in their final World Cup group game against Nigeria on Monday.

A 2-1 loss to Canada in Perth last Wednesday means the Girls in Green cannot make the last 16.

O'Sullivan, brilliant again in the middle of the park, admitted the defeat had devastated the players, but the experience of the last two weeks has also fed their desire to get back on the big stage.

Ireland kick off their first ever UEFA Women's Nations League cmpaign against Northern Ireland at the Avvia Stadium in September, with qualification for Euros due to start next February.

Lots to look forward, plenty to build on, but first Ireland must face a strong Nigerian side, who blew Group B wide open with a stunning win over Australia on Thursday.

"It's heartbreaking to be going home," said O'Sullivan. "We thought we were going to do it after Katie’s goal went in. Unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be. We’re really disappointed but we’ve another game to go and will look to win that.

"We’ll regroup. The feeling of disappointment will linger for a few days but we’ll rally around each other to lift the spirits.

"The fans were fantastic and we’ll try to win against Nigeria for them as well. The goal in every single game was to win and we've another chance on Monday.

"This is a fantastic squad that gives 100% and the talent is there. We’ve got a taste of tournament football now and want to come back for sure."

"I still feel hugely proud at being here representing our country."

O'Sullivan has had a wild fortnight. There was national panic when she was clattered in a behind-closed-doors game against Colombia, her shin coming under the sort of scrutiny