One man who is really putting himself in contention for a place in Ireland's squad for the big qualifier against Wales next month is Aston Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane.
The Cork native has continued his impressive form since signing for Villa in January after a stellar first-half of the season with Barnsley, and on Tuesday night he bagged his first goal for his new club which put them in a comfortable position against Bristol City.
It may have been his first goal for his new club, but he's been involved in a more than a few in recent times.
18 - Conor Hourihane has now been involved in 18 goals in the @EFL Championship this season (7 goals, 11 assists). Busy. pic.twitter.com/JSNw297OwF
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) February 28, 2017
Known for his long-range shooting and ability to score impressive goals, his first for Villa was naturally a tap-in that followed a fresh-air shot from one of his teammates.
But they all count, and Hourihane was in the right place at the right time to convert the chance.
Hourihane goal!!! #avfc pic.twitter.com/Mxvh4XDxDJ
— AVFCchats (@AVFCchats) February 28, 2017
Fair play to him, he's been in sensational form this season, and it's great for him to get up and running for Villa, although it's clear that the fans have already taken to him regardless.
Surely he's done enough to cement a place in the Ireland squad? Only time will tell, but it would be very harsh to deny him a spot considering the form he has shown this season.
