CALLUM ON A MISSION

CALLUM O’DOWDA is desperate for the Republic of Ireland to make it to next year’s Euros after missing out last time.

Four years ago, the then Oxford midfielder edged his way on to the international stage as a 21- year- old under manager Martin O’Neill, but he failed to make the final cut for the tournament in France.

He is off to face Slovakia in tomorrow night’s play- off semi- final in Bratislava, and admitted: “For me, it is probably the biggest game. I had a chance to go four years ago and the feeling around the squad was incredible. I hope we can get there again – I’d love to go.”