Conor Hourihane: "We feel like we're turning a corner"

Seán O’Connor reports from FAI HQ in Abbottstown.

Ireland midfielder Conor Hourihane spoke to the press this afternoon at the beginning of the latest international camp. Hourihane was a regular starter when Stephen Kenny took over in 2020, however a hamstring injury ahead of last year’s World Cup campaign put him out of the side. The 31-year-old didn't start any of Ireland’s remaining qualifiers, although he did bag two assists in a friendly against Qatar last October.

“Every time I come I try and give my utmost whether it’s off the bench or start,” said Hourihane.

“I’ve been in and out of the side over the last couple of camps. Stephen has been great with me since he came in. Any way shape or form I can help, any minutes this week, I’ll be trying to impress as always. Any minutes this week hopefully I can impress and get as many caps as I can.”

Kenny’s contract was extended earlier this month, as he aims to lead Ireland to Euro 2024 qualification. Hourihane spoke about the mood in the camp at the moment, with two sell-outs expected at the Aviva.

“We feel like we're turning a corner,” said Hourihane.

“We’re playing some good stuff and getting good results so onward and upwards. We’re really looking forward to this camp and the games ahead.”

“Anthony has left and gone on to a new chapter. John (Eustace) has come in which is great, the manager got his well-deserved contract as well so it's exciting times. We feel like the last few months has gone well for us and that we’ve turned a corner.”

Alan Browne is another midfielder that has been in and out of the national side under Kenny. The Preston North End player spoke about how factors have hampered recent international windows.

“It’s been frustrating for me, in and out with Covid and injuries,” said Browne.



“I'm looking to turn a page and stay away from Covid for a while. I'll do my best at club level and take that form into the international setup. It's a massive competition for places, especially in the middle of the park, so I'm here to play when called upon.”

The 26-year-old also shared his thoughts on the connection between the fans and the players, with the FAI selling a record 18,500 season tickets for 2022.

“Every credit to the manager, he’s seemed to get the fans back on side with us,” Browne said.

“The connection between ourselves and the fans is really evident and with ticket sales going through the roof you can see that. Hopefully, they are taking to the new brand of football. Things are looking good for us and them.”

“It’s always important to have fans on your side. Credit to the manager, he stuck to his guns and what he wanted us to do. It’s a long process. We came under a lot of criticism at first, and it’s starting to look up now. Performances and results have gone well for us and long may that continue.”

Although Saturday’s opponents will be missing the star names, the world’s number one ranked side will undoubtedly be favourites as Ireland begin their 2022 campaign.



“They have a fantastic squad with world class names,” said Hourihane.

“Belgium will be red hot favourites; we have to go about our business and be well prepared. It’s going to be a fantastic crowd there and a great buzz to see the Aviva full. Hopefully, we can put in a good performance and see how the result goes.

“They are number one for a reason, Browne added.

“The talent they have is incredible, playing in top divisions around the world. It's going to be a huge test for us, but one we’re looking forward to and hopefully enjoy.”

Ireland play Belgium in the FAI’s centenary game on Saturday at the Aviva Stadium, and host Lithuania the following Tuesday.

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