Young Irish footballers based at home have never had it so good, according to Jack Byrne. -
Byrne thought he was taking a step back by moving home to Shamrock Rovers , but, given the improvements he's seen since moving back, he says he's been proved wrong.
"It's really excellent," he said, comparing Rovers' training set up to others he's worked at in England, Holland and Scotland.
"The kids have a great chance up there. I wish I had that when I was a kid coming up.
"Even the underage Irish set-ups are so much better over the last couple of years. It's a good time for Irish football.
"I think Rovers are doing it right. When I walked in and knew I was coming home, I knew it wasn't going to be a walk in the park, train this day and don't train that day.
"It's not like that at all, it's a professional set up."
Asked if his inclusion in this Ireland squad can inspire others in the SSE Airtricity League, Byrne said: "There are some good players in the league, some good teams as well.
"I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Shamrock Rovers and us doing well.
"The manager (Stephen Bradley) has been unbelievable for me. So has (Stephen) McPhail, the rest of the staff.
"People should get out and watch the League a bit more, promote it a bit more so it can get going over the next few years".
Jack Byrne's move home to Shamrock Rovers fuelling his Republic of Ireland redemption
