Taylor itching for Republic of Ireland debut after long wait

Ipswich midfielder Jack Taylor admits his disappointment at failing so far to add a full Republic of Ireland cap to his seven appearances for the country’s under-21s but hopes that will end in the coming week.

During his time at Peterborough in 2020, Taylor, 26, was involved in one previous Ireland squad when promoted by then manager Stephen Kenny from the under-21s during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But he didn’t get any senior action during that international window and remained out in the cold until Heimir Hallgrimsson included him in the squad for the Nations League contests in Finland and Greece on Thursday and Sunday.

“I’ve been a bit gutted why I wasn’t called up and questioned why I wasn’t given the opportunity but these things happen in football,” added London-born Taylor, who has Longford family connections.

“It [the call-up] means everything. I haven’t been a part of the set-up for a while. I’m obviously delighted to be recognised.”

Hallgrimsson hails Taylor’s attacking ability

Taylor featured in 33 of Ipswich’s Championship games last season as they achieved promotion to the Premier League although only seven of those contests were starts.

He hasn’t yet made a Premier League start this season as manager Kieran McKenna has introduced him from the bench on five occasions but Hallgrimsson has hailed the midfielder’s attacking instincts and dribbling ability.

Asked if he was surprised by his inclusion, Taylor replied: “Not really. I knew the manager was at the game against Aston Villa (a 2-2 draw on 29 September) so I knew if I was to come on and make an impact, at least impress him.

“He said I can bring a different aspect in the middle of the pitch. Whether that’s going forward, progressing with the ball. He likes my attacking side but obviously defensively [as well], you need to bring every aspect of your game to the team.”

Taylor will hope to further enhance his claims for Irish selection by getting more extensive game time with Ipswich.

“I’m trying to do all I can to get that first [Premier League] start. I’ve had a couple of cameo performances but hopefully I’ll get that first start soon.

“We’ve got great midfielders with Kalvin Phillips and Sam Morsy, Jens Cajuste who came in from Napoli…..I knew there was going to be loads of competition getting promoted to the Premier League but I believed in myself that I was good enough to fight for my position.”

Taylor is among a quartet of Tractor Boys named in the Irish squad with his former Peterborough team-mate Sammie Szmodics included along with Chiedozie Ogbene and Dara O’Shea, who all joined the club in August.

“It’s going to see the lads joining us. The boss (McKenna) said the other day that we’re (the Irish) sort of taking over.

“My mum has always been proud to be Irish and Grandad, when he was still around, was the most Irish man ever. I know he didn’t sound like me but he will be looking down on me now really proud,” added the midfielder, whose team-mates at Barnet included brother Harry, now playing for National League club Southend United.

The midfielder added that earning a somewhat belated first cap over the next week would be “massive”.

“When the moment does come, it will be special for the whole family.”