Striker David McGoldrick expects boss Mick McCarthy to give him a big hug on his return to Ipswich after his two-assist debut for the Republic of Ireland. McGoldrick played the first 77 minutes of Ireland’s 4-1 friendly victory over the USA at the Aviva Stadium.
Asked what the former Ireland manager's reaction would be when he returned to the Blues, McGoldrick said: "He’ll give me a big hug, I know he will! He’s a top man, he’ll give me a hug and say ‘Well done’.
"He texted me before the game saying ‘All the best’ and I’ve not looked at my phone but I’m sure he’ll have sent me a text to say ‘Well done’ as well.”
The 26-year-old was delighted to finally make his Ireland debut after a lengthy period establishing his qualification.
"It was great to go out there,” he said. "It’s been a long time waiting for the clearance to go through and for it to have gone through and to have played 77 minutes is a great feeling.”
McGoldrick, who was partnered up front by his Town team-mate Daryl Murphy, was delighted to be involved in Ireland’s first two goals, even if he might have preferred to have scored on his debut.
"I’m confident in my ability,” he added. "I’d rather get two goals, but two assists and the win is good, and playing with the boys. There were some great players in the team today and it was a great experience.”
Reflecting on those assists, he said: "I got the ball off Anthony Pilkington for the first one and he’s carried on his run and then I’ve played it through to him and it was a great finish.
"Robbie [Brady] was coming round on the overlap and I cut it back to him and was a great finish again. It was a really nice feeling to get those two assists and the boys appreciated it.”
McGoldrick says he’s keen to score his first international goal but isn’t taking selection for the next squad for granted.
"A first goal would be nice and hopefully it won’t be too long,” he added. "But obviously I’m taking my time, I need to make the squad next time. There are good players here and I’m not taking anything for granted.”