Sheffield United's John Egan has learnt a lot from Everton's 'unbelievable' Seamus Coleman

John Egan says he is ready to captain Republic of Ireland against Lithuania if current skipper Seamus Coleman is not in the starting XI. The Sheffield United vice-captain has experience of wearing the armband at international level and could be trusted with the responsibility again on Tuesday evening.

He would be one of a few logical choices to take on the mantle from the Everton right-back who has struggled to recreate his previously brilliant form at club level this season. The visit of Lithuania to the Aviva Stadium provides the perfect opportunity for manager Stephen Kenny to try something different as they prepare for the next European Championship qualifying process.

Egan joined Kenny for the pre-match press conference which almost confirms his involvement in Tuesday’s friendly and faced a question about whether he will be entrusted with the captaincy. As per RTE Sport, the Blades centre-back replied: "I don’t have a clue. I see myself as a leader both at club level, and I think I have grown into a leader here now the more games I’ve played.

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"We have a lot of experienced lads in the team; Seamus Coleman is an unbelievable man and an unbelievable captain. He has got so much respect from everyone in the camp, so for us looking at him, and looking at the way he conducts himself, kind of gives a great example to the rest of the squad to carry yourself in a professional manner.

"And I think the likes of Seamus, [Shane] Duffy, [James] McClean, they’ve been around a long time in the squad and it’s great for the younger players especially, to have these guys to look up to."

As well as for his national side, Egan also has