That’s more like it.
Ireland might not have scored in the opening half of tonight’s crucial World Cup qualifier with Serbia, but the performance is a world away from what we had to put up with in Tbilisi on Saturday night.
The difference?
Well, he’s not solely responsible, but the inclusion of Wes Hoolahan from the start has made a huge difference to Ireland’s attacking play, giving them a level of quality and composure on the ball that simply wasn’t evident against Georgia.
A noticeable increase in urgency and tempo has also made a considerable difference to a far better performance by the Boys in Green, but such has been Hoolahan’s impact, it begs the question why he wasn’t involved three days ago.
Not surprisingly, he was the name on everyone’s lips at the break.
https://twitter.com/CaulkinTheTimes/status/905152788103081984
Ireland should play with Hoolahan in every game. Simple as that.
— Dale O'Donnell (@ODonnellDale) September 5, 2017
Why doesn't Hoolahan play every game, big difference with him in the side. Adds quality and confidence on the ball.#ireser #COYBIG
— FootballFix FPL ☘ (@FootballFix86) September 5, 2017
If only Wes Hoolahan was 10 Years younger. A level above every other Irish player on the pitch. #IRLSRB #WCQ2018 #COYBIG
— Daniel Scuffil (@DanielScuffil) September 5, 2017
https://twitter.com/Mclough90/status/905150248087117826
Lionel messi is the Argentinian wes hoolahan #Wessi
— Cónall Shaw (@conallshaw7) September 5, 2017
Wes Hoolahan is an absolute baller
— bensmith. (@Bsssx) September 5, 2017