Will Smallbone sets sights on France after dream debut

Will Smallbone hopes he has given Stephen Kenny a selection headache for Monday's face-off with France after a superb debut for the Republic of Ireland.

The Southampton midfielder - on loan at Stoke - played a hand in the first two goals as Ireland beat Latvia 3-2 on Wednesday night and was named player of the match in his maiden senior appearance.

It was a performance that puts him into contention for a role in the opening Euro 2024 qualifier against the World Cup runners-up.

"Before the game the nerves were there but once the game started I think I settled quite quickly," the 23-year-old told RTÉ Sport.

"He [Kenny] gave me the opportunity to go out there and show there what I can do and hopefully I haven't done myself any harm for Monday.

"It’s obviously a great game and a big night for Irish football. I’d love to be involved in it, whatever way that is."

Player of the match Will Smallbone was delighted with his contribution in Ireland's positive start against Latvia #IRLLAT #rtesoccer pic.twitter.com/yJDx54150k

Basingstoke-born Smallbone's mother Mary hails from Kilkenny and he was particularly proud that she was able to make the journey to the Aviva Stadium for his big night.

"A very proud moment to tell my family that I was playing and for them to be over here for it was very special," he said. "My mum and my girlfriend were over for the game.

"For me to play for Ireland is something my mum has always dreamed of and I have always dreamed of.

"Coming through the younger age groups she has been there watching and for her to be here tonight watching is very special."

Smallbone missed almost all of 2021 with an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury and said the thought of making his senior international debut was something that