Aaron McEneff admits it would be bonus territory if he lands another Republic of Ireland call-up next month.
But the new Hearts recruit wants to be part of an ‘exciting time for Irish football’ under Stephen Kenny.
The Derryman was a late-call-up for November's scoreless draw with Bulgaria in the Nations League.
He was a Shamrock Rovers player at the time and was drafted in after injuries and Covid setbacks rocked Kenny’s plans.
Although McEneff was an unused sub, it gave him a taste of the big stage and he wants more ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Ireland open their campaign away to Serbia on March 24 and McEneff has it all to do if Kenny’s first-choice midfielders are fit.
But playing in the Scottish championship with SPL-bound leaders Hearts will still put him in the manager’s thoughts.
McEneff said: “With those games coming up, the move puts me in the shop window. There are games I can be playing before the squad is picked.
“The League of Ireland’s doesn’t start until March 19, so playing games here in Scotland gives me a chance.
“All I can do is work hard, but it comes down to Stephen Kenny’s decision.”
Speaking on the EJ Menswear podcast, McEneff continued: “International football is a massive bonus and a proud moment.
“The only way you can do that is by performing at club level and that’s where my focus is at the moment.
“But these are exciting times with so many young players coming through, be it in the League of Ireland, England or Scotland.
“It's an exciting pool of talent. It's an exciting time for Irish football and I’d like to be a part of it."
