Last Updated: Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:23
Sunderland's Andy Reid is ready to fight for his place in the Republic of Ireland squad despite being told there is no place for him.
The 27-year-old midfielder has had a great start to the season for the Black Cats and was hopeful that would persuade Irish coach Giovanni Trapattoni to hand him an opportunity to shine for his country and help in their bid to qualify for next summer's World Cup finals.
However, despite the Italian coach revealing that there is no place for the Black Cats ace due to him already having the likes of Aiden McGeady, Andy Keogh and Liam Lawrence fighting it out for the left midfield berth, Reid is staying undeterred.
Reid said: "I have no control over being selected for Ireland - the only thing I can control is to perform for Sunderland.
"That is the only response open to me. I can't sit in my house and worry about not getting into the Ireland squad. I don't pick the Ireland squad.
"I'm just concentrating on giving everything for Sunderland and hopefully the Ireland manager will notice my performances. As far as I am concerned my Ireland career isn't over.
"I love playing for Ireland and if the opportunity came to play I'd be delighted."