Midfielder Jayson Molumby said he was “angry and disappointed” not be selected for Republic of Ireland during the previous international window.
The West Brom player was not in Heimir Halgrimsson’s squad for the opening World Cup qualifiers, a draw at home against Hungary and a 2-0 defeat away to Armenia.
Included for October’s games against Portugal and Armenia, Molumby is hoping he can take his club form onto the international stage and make an impact.
“It’s nice to be back, it was tough for me, I was gutted not to be selected, and it was hard to watch [the Armenia game],” he said.
“You feel a lot of emotions, angry and disappointed. I didn’t get a reason; there is however many lads to pick from and they [coaching staff] were just focused on the players they had selected.
“I feel I’ve started well this season; I’ve started all the league games for West Brom and am in a good place.”
The 26-year-old won the last of his 29 caps for his country against England in November 2024.
With Jason Knight missing through injury and Killian Phillips not included in the squad, Molumby is hoping he can stake his claim for a starting place in midfield alongside Josh Cullen.
“You back yourself. My strengths are I’m passionate, I care, and I work as hard as I can,” he added.
“I feel like I don’t get enough credit for my technical ability. I’m not unbelievable technically, but I can manage myself and I feel I’m good enough on the ball to play at this level and I feel I get looked over for that part of my game.
“I feel I can contribute. I’m not here to say I should be playing for Republic of Ireland, it hasn’t been a successful time since I’ve been here, I haven’t achieved much or won a big away fixture. I believe in myself but it’s hard when results haven’t come.”