Republic of Ireland forward Callum Robinson produced a fantastic performance as Preston North End hammered Wigan 4-0 in the Championship this afternoon.
Robinson found the back of the net twice, while former Cork City striker Sean Maguire made his first appearance of the season off the bench after a lengthy injury lay off. The two would combine for the team's fourth goal in injury time, with Maguire laying on a fantastic assist for his teammate.
Robinson got off the mark just five minutes into the second half, producing a neat finish from close range to double his side's advantage.
Maguire was introduced with 16 minutes left in the game, and there was still time for him to make an impact. With the game in its dying moments, he got on the ball down the left flank before producing a beautiful ball to the front post. Robinson was duly on the spot to prod the ball home to grab his second of the game.
To see an Irish player performing so well in front of goal will be encouraging to Martin O'Neill. The team has experienced a shortage of in-from forwards in recent times, and have found goals hard to come by as a result.
Maguire's return to fitness is also a major boost, as he has always looked dangerous in front of goal. He was named in the squad for the upcoming games against Denmark and Wales, and he will likely add to his two senior caps over the international break.
O'Neill will be hoping that Maguire and Robinson's understanding at club level can be transferred to the international game, and if they can link up like this in a green jersey it will be a major boost the Ireland's UEFA Nations League prospects.
