I still have a burning ambition to play for Northern Ireland, says Kilmarnock’s Brad Lyons
Brad Lyons has impressed since making the move to Scotland
Brad Lyons admits it would be a dream come true to pull on the green shirt of Northern Ireland.
Although he’s been a regular starter for Kilmarnock in his first two years — he’s signed a new two-year deal — he hasn’t managed to nudge his way on to the radar of international selection.
Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has his finger on the pulse of Scottish Premiership football and the former Coleraine star is hoping the call will come, sooner rather than later.
“I know Michael loves to watch Scottish football, he was at a few games last season,” said the former Blackburn Rovers midfielder. I think he was there to watch Liam (Donnelly).
“I’ve said in every interview, to pull on the green and white jersey would be my dream come true. It would be the pinnacle of my career, without a doubt.
“As long as I’m playing football, I’ll never give up on that…it’s still a burning ambition.
“My brothers and family are (Northern Ireland) season ticket holders; it would be huge privilege and a huge honour to represent my country.”
After their pre-season stint in Northern Ireland, where they faced Big Two rivals Glentoran and Linfield, Kilmarnock begin the new Scottish campaign with a League Cup tie against Annan Athletic at Rugby Park on Saturday.
“The (Scottish) League probably gets a lot of unfair stick... Celtic League,” claims Lyons, still in a broad Coleraine accent.
“It’s similar to the Irish League, with perhaps a little bit more quality. Judging by our game against Linfield, the two teams were evenly matched, so it shows how close the respective Leagues can be.
“The quality is in the top six in the SPL, and that’s where we are aiming to be. It’s a competitive League, very physical. At the same time, you can play your football at the right times.
“It’s a great League, especially with the passion that comes from the fans.
“We have had a few injuries in pre-season and the gaffer asked me to play at right-back against Glentoran.
“As long as I’m in the starting 11, I’ll play anywhere for him. I reckon my natural position is in the middle of the pitch, I like to try and get on the ball as much as I can.
“Our season officially starts on Saturday with the League Cup game at home, I can’t wait for it. Friendlies are good in terms of building up fitness, a necessary evil, but there is nothing like a competitive game.”
