Mick McCarthy was impressed with Will Keane as the striker scored his second goal of the season in Ipswich Town's 1-1 draw with Stoke on Saturday.
The former Manchester United man, who is on loan at Ipswich from Hull, is currently in the process of declaring for Ireland. Keane played at underage level for England. His twin brother is England international and Everton centre-back Michael Keane.
It was McCarthy's second time in three days watching Keane. He was also present at Ipswich's draw with Derby during the week.
James McClean had given Stoke first half lead following some charitable defending. Keane equalised with a 92nd minute header from a corner by Ireland international Alan Judge.
"Will [Keane] took his goal well at a time when Ipswich really needed it so his timing was good all round today," McCarthy told the FAI website.
In quotes published in Ipswich's matchday programme, Keane said he hopes to be available to play for Ireland in the coming months.
"The ball is rolling with that. I spoke to Mick McCarthy a few weeks back and he said he’d like me to declare,” said the 26-year-old.
That is something I have been looking at for a while. I heard I might be on the radar when I was at Hull but things are moving forward now and hopefully I will be available in the next few months.
"I was impressed again with Alan Judge as well," added McCarthy.
"Alan was very unfortunate with the injury he picked up when playing at Ipswich with Brentford and I am delighted to see him back to his best.
"The fact that James McClean scored the opening goal of the game for Stoke was a bonus as well."
McCarthy and his assistants Robbie Keane and Terry Connor were all present as Richmond Park on Friday night as St. Pat's beat Cork City on the opening night of the League of Ireland season.
"I really enjoyed the game and the atmosphere on Friday night and we will continue to monitor our own League in the months ahead," said McCarthy.
You can watch Will Keane's second goal in seven appearances for Ipswich below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kgBI4gWoiw
