Martin O'Neill joked yesterday that he might need to get a season ticket for Burnley next season as the Irish contingency at Turf Moor grows.
The Republic of Ireland manager may, however, be better served spending most of his time ground hopping between clubs in the Championship next season.
Middlesbrough yesterday announced that they had agreed a deal for Ireland number one Darren Randolph and now we know another international will be earning his living in England's second tier.
Daryl Murphy yesterday completed his move from newly promoted Newcastle to Nottingham Forrest for an undisclosed fee. The Waterford native joins on a three-year deal.
There's a good feeling around the club since I've come in. Everything seems to be in the right order and looking up.
It's a good time to be signing and to be part of something special.
🎥 New #NFFC striker Daryl Murphy speaks to iFollow Forest after signing a three-year deal with the club. https://t.co/Uglc5chUAD pic.twitter.com/rrOjqzereK
— Nottingham Forest FC (@NFFC) July 21, 2017
The 34-year-old notched five goals in 14 appearances last season to contribute to Newcastle's return to the Premier League.
Murphy's signing is a worrying trend as less and less Irish internationals play at the top level of English football and those who do may not necessarily be regular starters.
Shane Long stands as Ireland's predominant striker in the Premier League, although he's only managed four goals since the turn of the year.
Jonathan Walters also remains in the running to be Martin O'Neill's first choice forward after signing for Burnley this summer and West Brom's James McClean can never be discounted.
O'Neill may be best off doing away with his ticket for Turf Moor and instead set up camp in Deepdale to observe Preston North End's growing Irish roster.
Undoubtedly, Irish eyes will be keenly fixed on the next season.
