Norwich's Wes Hoolihan can still force his way into the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 plans, according to former star Ray Houghton.
Hoolihan has been largely overlooked by Republic boss Giovanni Trapattoni, winning his only senior cap back in 2008, and had to watch on as his compatriots booked their place at next summer's finals on Tuesday night with a 5-1 aggregate win against Estonia in their play-off.
But Houghton has seen been hugely impressed by the 29-year-old Dubliner's performances over the last few years and believes there is still time for him to become a member of Trapattoni's squad.
He told the Eastern Daily Press: "I've watched his career with a lot of interest since he played for the U21s in Ireland and he has done well.
"He has moved around in his career since but it's great that he is doing so well now. To get that promotion into the Premier League is good for Norwich and good for him.
"I think what happens is the manager has his own ideas and he has been building his squad for a period of time now - really since the previous qualifying campaign.
"If you look at the way he has moulded it he tends to bring one or two out to bring one or two in. They have been very loyal and maybe a little bit more reluctant to look at the older players, but I do think if he does continue to keep playing the way he is there is no doubt that once these (play-off) matches are over with, the manager will be looking for someone to break into the squad before the finals, if Ireland do make it there.
"Wes just has to keep his head down and keep playing well. If he does that then he will be in with a chance."