JACK Taylor was “praying” a senior international call-up would happen much sooner than it did – but the attacking midfielder plans to add “something different” to the Republic of Ireland set-up ahead of their Uefa Nations League games against Finland and Greece.
After playing for the U21s between 2019 and 2020, Taylor was called into Stephen Kenny’s senior squad for a home game against Bulgaria in November 2020 but never featured.
Since then, the-then Barnet player fell off Ireland’s radar despite moving on to Peterborough United where he helped them win promotion to the Championship in 2021.
But since moving to Ipswich Town last season and their ascent to the English Premier League, the 26-year-old’s name undoubtedly holds more appeal to new Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson.
Taylor was one of several new additions from last month’s Ireland squad that suffered back-to-back defeats to England and Greece, both in Dublin.
“That’s the aim – just to get on the pitch and try and bring something different to the team,” said the Hammersmith-born central midfielder.
“We need at least a win I think in this camp, so hopefully a good performance and definitely a good result would be very positive.”
He added: “I’ve been obviously a bit gutted when I haven’t been called up and questioned why I wasn’t given the opportunity, but these things happen in football. It’s just one of those things you have to get on with.
“I’m 26 now. I was praying it would come a little bit earlier, but I’m just delighted to be here now. When that moment does come then it will be that bit more special for the whole family.”
In his brief conversations with Hallgrimsson, Taylor knows what’s required should he be called upon in Helsinki on Thursday or in Athens on Sunday.
“He just 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.
“So, he’s not specifically told me I’m here for this or here for that, just embed myself in the team and become a part of the squad.”
Taylor qualifies to play for Ireland as his grandfather hailed from Longford and he’s carried Irish citizenship since birth.
“I used to go most years to see my family,” Taylor said. “My mum has always been really proud to be Irish and my Grandad was the most Irishman ever. He would be very proud now looking down.”
Taylor has made five appearances for Ipswich this season, all from the bench, amassing 109 minutes.
Manager Kieran McKenna has recruited heavily in a bid to stay in the top flight at the end of the season, which has pushed Taylor to the bench.
“It’s obviously a step up,” he said. “We knew it was going to be with the quality of players you are coming up against week in, week out.
“Obviously, there are no easy games at all and I’m trying to do as best I can to get that first start. I have had a couple of cameo performances, hopefully I’ll get that start soon.
“We have some great midfielders at the minute with Kalvin [Phillips] and Sam Morsy and 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 believe in myself that I’m good enough to fight for my position and the last couple of weeks show that I have. Hopefully I will get that start. It is just about training right and bringing the best of myself every day.”
Taylor is joined in the Irish squad by Ipswich team-mates Sammie Szmodics, Dara O’Shea and Chiedozie Ogbene.
Be the first to comment