Max O'Leary happy patience was rewarded after making his debut in Luxembourg
The 28-year-old Bristol City goalkeeper was first called up in 2019 and has been included in squads by successive managers without ever getting the nod.
However, he was handed his chance in Tuesday night's 0-0 friendly draw in Luxembourg as Heimir Hallgrimsson repaid his loyalty and dedication with a debut.
O'Leary said: "I've seen a few managers, been in lots of camps, so it is finally nice to get that first cap.
"That availability, knowing you might not play, but still turning up and working every day, I love doing it. I love working hard to help others out when I need to, so when it is my time, I am ready to go.
"I've tried to be patient. I've been patient pretty much my whole career. I'm a bit older now so I know how the game works. You come in and it is something different, being with the boys, different coaches and you can learn from great players as well.
"The group we have got is really good. Caoimh [Caoimhin Kelleher] has been really great with me this week, so has Josh [Keeley]. We know there are other lads waiting as well. There is a good unit there."
28mins: 🇱🇺 LUX 0-0 🇮🇪 IRL
After a quiet first 20 minutes O'Leary is forced into action on his debut, in the first big chance of the game to make a great save.
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O'Leary's bow proved to be far more than a token gesture as he produced two fine saves to deny first Danel Sinani and then substitute Vincent Thill at the Stade de Luxembourg to ensure he emerged with a clean sheet.
That result extended Ireland's unbeaten run to four games ahead of turning their attention to September's opening World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia.
O'Leary said: "It's all right, isn't it? Of course you want to go win the game. We said at half-time that the worst case is we keep it at 0-0.
"We knew we would get chances. We hit the bar, Troy [Parrott] has had a [goal] that was ruled offside. Little bits and pieces we know we can improve, but we have built foundations going into competitive games where we know we can improve."
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