Ryan Manning probably should have more caps for Ireland at this point in his career.
Despite thriving as a left wingback or on the left of a back three over the last few seasons, he has only been capped six times by Ireland at senior level. Stephen Kenny has favoured other players in that wingback position, first in the form of Enda Stevens, with James McClean, Robbie Brady, and Callum O'Dowda also spending time in the role.
His reluctance to select Manning has been confusing. The 26-year old has been in top form in the Championship in recent times, firstly for QPR and then Swansea City.
He has been among the most consistent players for the Welsh side this season, although his time at the club looks to be drawing to an end. Out of contract at the end of the campaign, negotiations over a new deal have been stalled for quite some time.
Swansea City boss admits Ryan Manning set to leave the club
Swansea City operate within a limited budget, meaning Ryan Manning was always likely to get bigger contract offers from elsewhere when you consider his pedigree as a Championship player.
Speaking ahead of their game against Stoke City tomorrow night, manager Russell Martin admitted that the Galway native was set to leave the club at the end of the campaign and there was little point asking further questions on the issue moving forward (h/t Wales Online):
I love Ryan, he loves it here, but we’ve allowed the contract to go to the last year, or not address it properly in the summer, so we’re at where we’re at.
I don’t think there’s any point in keeping talking about that. He’s not going to sign a contract here.
He’s given us everything he’s got, which is all we can ask for. He’s got the right to go and see what’s out there for him in the summer.
We’re exploring other options for that for next season already. It’s what we have to do, we have to be ready. It’ll be a real shame.
The reality is now, you get past January and people think he may leave in January and you readdress the situation, but I don’t think anything’s changed from his end or his agent’s end.
We have to avoid that in the future. It is what it is really.
Ryan Manning is sure to have no shortage of suitors in the summer, especially when available on a free transfer.
He will be hoping to continue his strong recent form in the months ahead, perhaps playing himself into the Ireland picture as a result.
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