Devlin predicts bright future for Stokes

Anthony Stokes is destined to become a Republic of Ireland star of the future. That is the verdict of Republic B team manager Pat Devlin after witnessing Stokes' remarkable attitude over the past 48 hours.

Stokes has been inspirational since joining Falkirk at the start of the season on loan from Arsenal, scoring 11 goals, with 10 in his last six matches.

On Monday, the 18-year-old played the full 90 minutes of Falkirk's 1-1 draw at home to Hearts before his introduction as a substitute early in the second half of last night's goalless draw with Scotland B.

In Stokes' 38 minutes of action at Dalymount Park he set up two of Ireland's chances, one crucially spurned by Andy Keogh, and the other which saw Paul Gallacher deny Joe Gamble.

Stokes was one of the few bright spots of an otherwise drab game, leaving Devlin to comment: "His attitude is fantastic.

"He is a true professional, turning up after playing a match for Falkirk on Monday and playing nearly a full half for us. That speaks volumes of the boy, and if he keeps going with that attitude then he will win many caps for his country."

By arrangement with his club Cardiff, as the Championship leaders are at home to QPR on Friday, Ireland B captain Stephen McPhail played in only the first half.

Now he begins a three-month battle to force his way into senior boss Steve Staunton's plans as the Republic's next match following the Euro 2008 qualifier with San Marino tonight is the return in early February.

"It was good to get a half under my belt with Ireland again," said McPhail, who has 10 senior caps, but with the last now two-and-a-half years ago. "Every time I pull on the green jersey, I'm really proud to do so, and to captain the side is something I'll always remember.

"Now all I have to do is to keep playing the right way for Cardiff and if the chance comes then I'll be delighted. Friday night is the next game for me, and if I keep myself fit and I'm playing well, then hopefully I'll get that chance.

"I hope I'm close. I think there are a few other boys in the same boat, and we all want to push on."