Oct 09,2024
Jack Taylor is aiming to make a long-awaited first Republic of Ireland senior appearance in the games with Finland and Greece this week in the UEFA Nations League.
The Ipswich Town midfielder, now 26, has been waiting for the opportunity after 18 months out of the squad.
Taylor featured prominently in Stephen Kenny's Ireland Under-21 side in 2019 and received his first senior call-up in November 2020 for a UEFA Nations League match against Bulgaria.
His potential was highlighted by being named FAI Under-21 International Player of the Year for 2020.
Taylor said: "It means everything [to be called up again]. Obviously, I haven't been a part of the set-up for a while now, so I'm obviously delighted to be recognised and to be called up.
"That's the aim, just to get onto the pitch and try and bring something different to the team.
"We need at least one win, I think, in this camp, so hopefully we get a good performance and definitely a good result would be very positive."
Taylor has made five substitute appearances for his club this year, finding it difficult to get into the side upon promotion to the Premier League.
Heimir Halgrimsson was present as the midfielder came off the bench against Aston Villa to play 21 minutes, which undoubtedly helped his cause in being recalled.
"I knew that the manager was at the game against Aston Villa, so I knew if I was to come on and make an impact, I'll at least impress him. Thankfully, I've eventually been called up.
"It’s obviously a step up in the Premier League. We knew it was going to be, with the quality of players you're coming up against week in, week out, and obviously there's no easy games at all.
"I found the step up really well, and I'm trying to do the best I can to try and get that first start. I've had a couple of cameo performances, but hopefully I'll get that start soon to come."
Ireland have been struggling in midfield in recent years and there is a chance Halgrimsson may look for fresh faces.
Taylor revealed the new Irish boss has spoken to him in the past about what he can bring to the squad, although yet to do so on this camp.
"He said that 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.
"He's not specifically told me I'm here for this or here for that, just to embed myself in the team and become a part of the squad."
Taylor qualifies for Ireland through his grandfather Jim born in Longford, now deceased.
Should the moment arrive in these away matches, his family are waiting to be present at the away games.
"My mum has always been really proud to be Irish and my grandad when he was here still was the most Irish man ever.
"I know it doesn't sound like me, but he was really proud and he will be looking down now really proud of me, I guess.
"It would be massive [for my family if I did play]. We've been waiting, I'm 26 now.
"I was praying it was coming a little bit earlier, but these things happen in football and I'm just delighted to be here now and when that moment does come, I think it will be special for the whole family.
"If I get the nod that I'm starting, I think there will be a couple coming over. But apart from that, they'll be watching it on television and I'll be talking to them, telling them if I'm playing or not and then they'll definitely make their way over to Finland."
Taylor is one of four Irish internationals with the Tractor Boys in England.
Dara O’Shea, Chiedoze Ogbene and Sammie Szmodics form part of the strong Irish contingent.
It’s wishful thinking for Ireland that they could be joined by Liam Delap, son of former international Rory.
He has taken the Premier League by storm with four goals since joining in a €24m transfer from Manchester City.
For now, Taylor has confirmed the rising star is staying with the pathway to becoming a senior England player.
"To be honest I haven't really spoken to him about it. He is a great lad.
"I think he is committed to play for England at the minute. If he decides to change I think we'll be happy enough to get him on board."
