From Grealish to Kane: 5 Future Ireland stars in the making

With Robbie Keane set to lead the line for the Republic of Ireland against Gibraltar in their latest Euro 2016 qualifier, there will be some among the Green Army support already groaning at the presence of the 34-year-old veteran who is now playing in Major League Soccer with LA Galaxy.

But while Keane remains a necessary evil, particularly among those punters looking to make hay with the 8/5 Ladbrokes is offering on over 5.5 goals in this encounter, the Republic’s football future looks relatively rosey.

Available at 300/1 with the bookmakers to win the World Cup next time round in Russia, here are five names that could make that a bet worth backing.

Eoghan O’Connell is … the new Richard Dunne

Currently on the books at Celtic and capped by the Republic at under-19 level, O’Connell has already made three appearances for the Scottish Premiership champions this term and big things are predicted from a centre-back who has drawn comparisons with the ex-Man City favourite. Have a laugh at this Dunne-inspired own goal against Inverness!

Bradley Garmiston is … the new Paul McGrath

Boasting the same versatility as the former Manchester United and Aston Villa legend, the 20-year-old West Brom defender/midfielder recently made his debut for Ireland at under-21 level and looks likely to feature for the Baggies this term, having impressed Alan Irvine in pre-season. See Garmiston in action for the Baggies against Port Vale.

Jack Grealish is … the new Damien Duff

Arguably the hottest property in Irish football, Grealish has played for the Republic at under-17, under-18 and under-21 level. A quick, skillful winger who has already impressed for Aston Villa this term, the 19-year-old could follow in the footsteps of Damien Duff with a move to Chelsea. Take a look at this compilation of Grealish’s best bits.

Michael Drennan is … the new John Aldridge

The FAI under-16 Player of the Year three years ago, Drennan is currently on loan at Portsmouth from Aston Villa and looks to have all the qualities required to help provide the Republic with some cutting edge in the final third. Watch out for this one in League Two. Check out Drennan in action for Villa in the NextGen series.

Harry Kane is … the new Tony Cascarino

Yet to declare his allegiances to either England or Ireland, the Tottenham youngster could well take on the Cascarino role as a player with questionable ties to the country but a great goal record. Already off the mark for Spurs this term and likely to add a few more to his tally. Enjoy some of Kane’s finest moments below.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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