Kasey McAteer came off the bench to make his debut for the Republic of Ireland in their Nations League defeat against England.
Lee Carsley’s first game in charge of England ended in victory as the Three Lions showed no signs of a post-Euro 2024 hangover.
Goals from Declan Rice and Jack Grealish were enough as England cruised to a relatively comfortable win in Dublin.
From a Leicester City perspective, it was still a special moment as Kasey McAteer was handed his debut for the Republic of Ireland after recently deciding to declare for them ahead of Northern Ireland and England.
Kasey McAteer looks back on ‘dream come true’ Ireland debut
Even though McAteer’s debut ended in defeat, it will live long in the memory of the Foxes academy graduate.
Speaking to the media in the mixed zone, the 22-year-old couldn’t hide his delight. He said: “It was amazing.
“It’s like a dream come true, playing at a packed out Aviva against a top side like England, it’s what dreams are made of. To have my family here to share it with me is a moment that will live with me forever.
“I had a little thought about my Nan and my uncle Joey. They are no longer with us but would have been so proud looking down. They were big Ireland fans so it was a nice moment. Hopefully, I can have more in the future.”
When will Kasey McAteer play for Ireland again?
McAteer and Ireland will have a short turnaround as they dust themselves down and prepare to face Greece at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday.
Kicking off at 7:45 PM, Ireland will fancy their chances to record their first win of the Nations League campaign and set them up in good stead for the October international break, where they will face Finland and Greece again.
Having caught the eye in his brief cameo, there is every chance that the 22-year-old could start from the off.
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