David McGoldrick has been named the 2019 ‘Three’ FAI Senior Men’s International Player of the Year.
The Sheffield United striker was brought back into the international fold by Mick McCarthy and made a valuable contribution to the team, scoring his first goal against Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium.
The 32-year-old's level of performance was recognised by the jury of media personnel who selected him as their top choice ahead of his club teammate Enda Stevens and Glenn Whelan.
“I’m surprised. I think there are a lot of players who could have got it from their performances throughout the campaign. There is a wealth of experience and young, talented players as well so it’s a real honour and privilege to win this award ahead of them,” McGoldrick told FAI TV.
“In previous years I was in and out of the squads and didn’t really get the consistent game-time, which is fair enough. But to get game-time and to show what I can do and to win this award on the back end of it ahead of Enda Stevens and Glenn Whelan, I’m proud of myself for that.
“It’s been a crazy year. It’s gone really fast. Obviously I got my international goal at the start of the season, which gave me massive confidence. My performances have been good and to score my two Premier League goals that’s what I wanted, that’s what every player wants. Altogether it’s been a crazy and a weird season at the same time with what is happening in the world.”
McGoldrick who now has 12 senior international appearances has already spoken with new Ireland manager Stephen Kenny and he is hoping to be named in the squad for the UEFA Nations League games against Bulgaria and Finland next month.
“Everyone will be itching to see what the squad is and if you get selected. I know it’s going to be a busy schedule when we meet up but everyone will be itching to impress – first impressions are a big one,” he said.
Preston midfielder Alan Browne has been named the Young International Player of the Year ahead of Josh Cullen and Callum Robinson.
This category considers players aged 25 years old or younger who have represented the Senior Men’s team in the respective year of the awards taking place.
Browne impressed as he featured in four of the qualifiers for the the European Championship. He is no stranger to collecting awards having won the Under-21 Player of the Year in 2015 and the Schools International Player of the Year in 2013 when studying at Nagle Community College.
"Winners of other categories will be announced later this week," the FAI said.
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