June 4 2001

Clinton Morrison

Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison was very happy with his first appearance on the international stage for the Republic of Ireland.

Under-21 boss Don Givens will let the youngster start in the game against Estonia on Tuesday.

After the Portugal game, which was lost 1-0, Morrison said: "I had to cope with some strong physical marking, but I enjoyed my debut despite the result.

"The reaction I had from the crowd was fantastic. I'm only sorry I didn't score because I aim to do that in every game I play.

"I wondered how the Irish people would react to me especially with all the stories which claimed I really wanted to play for England.

"That's a load of rubbish. I'm 100 per cent Irish now, fully committed.

"The thing we have to learn as a team is to keep the ball better but there's a great spirit in the Under-21 side and I'm glad I made the decision to join. All this team has got to do is learn to keep the ball better."

Givens was impressed with his performance and is going to give him another chance against Estonia on Tuesday night.

"He did well and he will be in the team again when we play Estonia in Tallin on Tuesday," said Givens.

"I know he's ambitious to break through into the senior squad as soon as possible but I don't know if he's ready just yet.

"He was impressive enough on his Under-21 debut, though, and so was our other striker Graham Barrett. The boys up front were not our problem."