This international break for Ireland certainly earned John Giles' seal of approval.

The Boys in Green avoided defeat against Switzerland, before a much-changed side saw off Bulgaria.

John joined us as always on a Thursday. He was happy with many elements of what he saw in the Switzerland game, especially in terms of attitude.

But he also saw promise in the emerging players who saw action in the 3-1 win over Bulgaria.

"I was quite pleased with the promise of the lads who were playing," he said.

"I thought [Jack] Byrne was very good when he came on. [Alan] Browne was very good, [Josh] Cullen was very good and I thought [Callum] O'Dowda could come into that category as well, as a midfield player.

"If you had those four lads across the midfield, I think they'd do well because they can all play a bit. It depends how they impose themselves on the games that really matter.

"Looking at Byrne, when Byrne got the ball, I thought he was good. When Browne got the ball he was good. But it's getting the ball or making the ball come to you. I want to see more of that from them."

Parrott

John also added that he would like to see at least three of them start Ireland's next friendly at least.

Meanwhile, there is plenty of promise in the Ireland Under-21s. Stephen Kenny's side beat Sweden 3-1, days after seeing off Armenia to make it three wins from three so far in the qualifying group. A number of talents are earning rave reviews, including Tottenham youngster Troy Parrott, who scored twice against the Swedes and another in the Armenia game.

"I wouldn't worry about his age," said John of the 17-year-old.

"What I find with players of the real calibre, the age doesn't mean anything. Of course, they can learn with experience. But if they have it, and if they have it and have it physically, they can do it at 17. We've seen players do it at 17. I know the likes of Pele and these lads were exceptional in what they did. But there are players who have it."

He also cited the example of a young Liam Brady and also added that "17 in football is actually not that young".

You can also watch the full chat with John above via our YouTube channel.