Browne turns heads with scoring exploits

IRELAND fans have yet to see the best of Alan Browne but if Mick McCarthy was to pick his first XI on club form, then the Preston player would be in the side.

The midfielder brought his tally for the season to 11 on Saturday with a classy strike away at Bolton in a game where Seán Maguire was key.

Browne looked nervous and uncomfortable when given a chance by Martin O’Neill in his ill-fated experimental year. The 23-yearold is a different animal in club colours and, with Ireland short of goalscoring options, there is a case to be made for finding room for an attacking midfielder in the form of his life. Callum O’Dowda also delivered another crucial assist for Bristol City, with the Championship pair offering some hope .

Cork City will be excited by Browne’s head-turning form as they hold a sell-on clause if Preston decide to do business.