Republic of Ireland defender Jimmy Dunn said his country’s debut “feels like a long time coming.”
The Dundalk native won his first international cap when the Republic of Ireland came out of the bench to get a 2-1 victory with Bulgaria at home in the Neontions League B playoffs and a 4-2 aggregate victory.
The 27-year-old was pleased to have finally made an international bow after first joining Ireland’s senior setup in 2018 and refusing to previously declaring the opportunity to declare Northern Ireland.
“I’m not ashamed to admit that it was one of the proudest moments of my life – I’m incredibly proud because my mother and family were there,” he told BBC Sport NI.
“I’m glad that nothing has changed on a day like today. [in switching international allegiances]and I stuck to it. I’m 27 now, but hopefully I have a long career and plenty of opportunities to play in my country.
“Sometimes I had to park it deep inside my heart [playing for the Republic of Ireland]But I’ve always really wanted to do it. It’s a marker, but I want to kick. ”
The Queen’s Park Rangers defender praised Irish boss Haimir Hall Grimson and made his debut in the second leg of the promotion/relegation playoffs, for advice given to him during this camp by the Icelandic coach.
“It might have been very easy for the manager to stick to what he knows because there were so many dangers tonight, but he has a lot of trust in me and he led me,” added Dan.
The defenders believe the Republic is moving in the right direction ahead of the World Cup qualifiers that begin in September.
“I wasn’t part of this group before, but there was a lot of criticism, but I don’t think there was a hangover from the England game. [in November]we are really together and we really believe, so there’s no reason why these young people can’t kick and do great things. ”
