GETTING BROWNE TO BUSINESS

ALAN BROWNE feels the secret of his stellar season was finally settling on a best position.

But after starring as a No 10 for Preston North End, the Corkman knows he will have to be more adaptable with Ireland.

Browne - capped twice scooped Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Goal of the Year awards at Deepdale this season.

“Under Simon Grayson I was moved around quite a lot,” he said.

“I’ve featured in different positions this year but that was down to injuries and the gaffer showing his trust in me when he needs me to play a certain role.

“But finding that 10 role and making it my own was probably the main factor in having a good season.”

Browne, 23, added: “Under the last manager I was a bit unsure at times whether I was best playing further forward and then I’d have a spell of games where I’d play deeper.

“But the gaffer now (Alex Neil) has put me in that 10 role and stuck with me and I think I’ve adapted well and managed to add goals to my game.”

Browne (right) scored Ireland’s opener in Sunday’s testimonial draw with Celtic but knows a No.10 slot with Ireland is unlikely long term.

“Every manager is different,” he said. “The club manager prefers to have that natural 10 but here in the Irish set up it’s a bit different.

“You have to be more versatile in the way you play.

“That’s the role I prefer but if needs be I can help out defensively too.”