Will Smallbone eager to test himself against France after impressive Ireland bow

Will Smallbone is desperate to test himself against the might of France just days after making his senior Republic of Ireland debut.

The 23-year-old Southampton midfielder, who is currently thriving on loan at Sky Bet Championship Stoke, earned particular praise from Ireland boss Stephen Kenny for his performance in Wednesday night’s 3-2 friendly victory over Latvia.

Kenny’s young side – the starting XI had an average age of just 23.6 – is likely to be strengthened significantly for the visit of the World Cup runners-up to the Aviva Stadium in Monday night’s Euro 2024 qualifying opener, but Smallbone is hoping for another chance to show what he can do.