Dara O'Shea Player Review

West Brom and Republic of Ireland defender Dara O'Shea... Could he be one for the future?

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A Dara O'Shea player review was requested by one of our social media followers and I'm glad because he's one of few Irish youngsters playing regular football on the big stage, the Premier league. He's not the first Irish O'Shea to make a big name for themselves with the elite so here's hoping he can drive on to new levels. The promising centre back first popped onto Pitchside Guide's radar during the well known under-21 Toulon tournament. His previous U-21 teammates include Brighton man, Aaron Connolly and the talented Derby midfielder, Jason Knight. Although he was surrounded by this talent, he definitely was not in the shadows.

O'Shea came into light during last season's Championship campaign with West Bromwich Albion where he played a vital role in the resulting promotion to the Premier League. Winning the young player of the year award that season really topped it off in style. Similar to most up and coming youngsters playing in the UK, loan spells were had. His time with Exeter City really helped in shortening the leap from underage to Championship football by gathering up tons of game time in League 2. In fact, this was the period where his first Irish U-21 call up occurred. An impression was made in Exeter that's for sure.

Let's discuss O'Shea's highly encouraging Irish senior career! Republic of Ireland boss came calling last year when O'Shea made his senior debut against Finland. O'Shea and Kenny previously worked together during the Under-21 campaign mentioned above. It's great to see Kenny utilising the player pathway system to its full capabilities! I fully believe involving Dara in the opening World Cup Qualifiers will have a positive effect as he hasn't really put a foot wrong in his first few Irish games. Especially with Duffy having a rough patch this year, having a centre back playing regular high-level football is what we need. From an Irish fan standpoint, we'd be keen for the Duffy and O'Shea centre back partnership to be developed further.

Irish fans wouldn't be happy to see West Brom boss, Sam Allardyce leaving O'Shea out of the starting line-up last month with a change in formation. The Dublin man was playing comfortably as a three at the back until 'Big Sam' unfortunately switched it up to a four at the back formation. All is well again though as he managed to creep back into the starting line-up. We're interested to see Dara's next moves as the Baggies are looking likely to be relegated this season. If an opportunity to transfer to a Premier League club appeared, we'd love to see him snatch the offer. Pitchside Guide believe he's too talented for the Championship and the former St Kevin's man can develop into a top quality centre half.

Thoroughly enjoyed writing this review and it's exciting to see how he'll develop in the Irish set up as the year progresses. Let's hope West Brom miraculously stay up this season for his benefit! Thanks for reading and make sure to drop us any more suggestions via email or social media.