Andrew Moran focusing on the Republic of Ireland U21s over potential senior bow

It seems to be only a matter of time before Andrew Moran realises his “dream” of representing the Republic of Ireland at senior level.

In fact, had it not been for the unfortunate ankle injury he picked up in the Ireland U21s Euro 2025 qualifier victory away to Lativa, he may well have won his first senior cap last month against Gibraltar.

“I got pulled the morning of the (Latvia) game and they told me that was the plan (to travel to Gibraltar) because they had to sort of loads of flights and stuff,” admits Moran, who has a big admirer in the form of current senior manager Stephen Kenny.

“It was so gutting. As soon it happened in the Latvia game, I felt my ankle go, it was just aaahh, it’s just typical, the one time you don’t need an injury, of course it happens. It’s just the way it’s going to be. Obviously, I’m only young, so there is more time.

“Yeah, you do see it (compliments). It’s really nice to hear, the Ireland senior manager, that’s your dream to be in the Ireland senior team. It’s great to hear such compliments.

“I had a phone call from him last month because the last camp I was meant to be called up and then I obviously got that injury in Latvia which was gutting really because I was so excited to be going with the senior team.

“He just said to keep going, it was unfortunate it happens, just keeping my head down.”

It is advice that Moran has heeded as since overcoming that issue he has starred in midfield for Blackburn Rovers, where he is currently on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion until the end of the season.

The Dublin native was recently named in the championship team of the week after helping fellow Irish international Sammie Szmodics climb to the top of the division’s goal-scoring charts.

“I think