Kevin O’Toole: Republic of Ireland career ‘always a dream’ for US-born defender

The left-sided player recounted some of his family history which made his inclusion in the Irish squad special.

“My grandfather was a Dubliner, immigrated to the US in 1958, raised a family in the US, and was born in New York City.

“This has always been a dream of mine, to represent this country, and to do it for my grandfather. We have really strong Irish connections and roots.”

“My father has always been a proud descendant of an Irishman and has always instilled these values ​​in us.

“My mum and dad are very proud and I just want to do something for them because they have invested so much in my career.”

O’Toole’s sister Gillian plays for United Treaty in the Irish Women’s Premier Division and will return to Ireland to support her brother this week.

“My fiancée and aunt will be making the trip and my sister will be back too – her season just ended two weeks ago.

“I had returned [to Ireland] Quite a bit. My sister plays football in Limerick, so I was here over the summer watching her match and I always love my visits here.

“My real interest [in playing for the Republic of Ireland] I started to grow a couple of years ago when I progressed with New York City and became a regular at the club.

“Then the opportunity struck and discussions began. In February, I had a phone conversation with Heimer.

“He had coached one of my current teammates at Jamaica previously, so he called me and from there it was just a matter of finding the right moment and it couldn’t be a bigger moment for him, so [I’m] Really happy.”