Neil Farrugia hopes his Shamrock Rovers form can catapult him into Ireland reckoning

Neil Farrugia has been named on a standby list for Ireland's Euro 2024 qualifiers against Greece and Gibraltar

Neil Farrugia has been named on a standby list for Ireland's Euro 2024 qualifiers against Greece and Gibraltar Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)

Andrew Dempsey reports from Tallaght Stadium

Neil Farrugia has been one of Shamrock Rovers’ standout performers this season – and he has his eyes on a first Ireland senior call-up.

The former under-21 international was recently involved with an Ireland training camp in Bristol as senior boss Stephen Kenny ran the rule over a host of possible recruits.

And while he was not picked in the final squad for the European Championship qualifiers against Greece and Gibraltar – he is on a standby list for the games if needed.

“It was great going into the camp and training with the lads at a top level,” he explained. “I really enjoyed those three days – and although it was short I still think I did OK.

“I enjoyed it and that was the most important thing. It was a step up but it was nothing that I don’t think I am capable of. It was a fast pace and the lads were sharp.”

Recently, Kenny namechecked Farrugia as a potential option to feature in his squad – which has not gone unnoticed by the former UCD prospect.

The 24-year-old has been a key part of Rovers’ ascent to the top of the table this season, and despite his age he is not losing hope in his bid to become an international.

“It definitely is,” he replied when asked if Kenny’s interest in him is encouraging. “All I can do is go out and perform in these games and perform to the best of my ability and whatever happens, happens.



“I can’t think too far ahead and those things are out of my control so as long as I keep putting in performances, we’ll see what happens.

“A lot of international players have come in late so players develop in different stages with injuries and all that. It’s definitely not a closed door.”

However, Farrugia is also eligible to play for Malta at international level – but he seems to have ruled out that possibility.

“They expressed an interest, but I want to play for Ireland,” Farrugia explained. “Going to the Irish team can happen at different ages and stages.”

If the wing-back can earn a first call-up he would follow in the footsteps of Liam Scales, his former teammate at UCD and Shamrock Rovers.

While Scales has not made his senior bow for the Boys in Green yet, he is beginning to establish himself as a squad member under Kenny.



And that is something Farrugia would be keen to replicate at the very least.

“He has done really well and has been rewarded with these call-ups,” he added. “Hopefully he will be capped soon. He’s paved the way. 

“It’s a goal for me, but these things can’t be controlled. What I can do is just put in good performances and hopefully that will be enough.”

About Andrew Dempsey

View Full Profile