Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has praised Aston Villa's Glenn Whelan for his impressive attitude since returning to international action.
It was thought the 35-year-old made his final Irish appearance against Northern Ireland last autumn, but Whelan has been brought back into the fold for Euro 2020 qualifiers against Gibraltar and Georgia.
Former boss Martin O'Neill stated Whelan was not in his plans, but McCarthy has taken a very different approach to the midfielder.
This comes as a result of Whelan impressing in his 28 appearances for Villa this season, with manager Dean Smith frequently deploying the former Stoke man at the base of midfield.
The Villans are in a rich vein of form having won their last four matches to rise into the play-off spots and Whelan has formed an important part of this winning streak.
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The 85-cap midfielder is widely recognised as ageing yet capable, but McCarthy was quick to play down claims he has passed his best.
"I think he's remarkable," McCarthy told Dublin Live. "Is he 35 now? He's playing and he doesn't look like the old man on the pitch, that's for sure. He looks like an experienced player."
It appears that McCarthy has not called upon Whelan to supplement the squad's numbers, but instead with the intention to make him an integral part of his squad.
When discussing Whelan's fitness, the Ireland manager responded by alluding to Whelan's ability when coping with the Championship's demands this season.
McCarthy said: “He's playing in the Championship where they have to go Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday. I don't know how many times he's done that but he's okay, he's fit."
The Verdict
It appears Whelan's Villa form has earned him another shot at international football, but Villa fans will be hoping he returns from Republic of Ireland's double header unscathed ahead of the final run-in.
He's been impressive for Dean Smith's side in recent weeks, allowing the likes of Jack Grealish, John McGinn and Conor Hourihane to thrive further forward.
Thoughts? Let us know!