Irish eyes smiling as O'Neill gets the call

PAUL O'NEILL, Belgraves' versatile Irishman, is set for his full island debut in Saturday's Malaya Cup clash against the Naval Air Command. He is one of two replacements named in the 17-man squad to cover for the loss of Paul Nobes and Darren Martin.

Nobes will be out for probably three weeks with ankle and knee trouble, while young Martin has been advised to rest his back for a month.

The squad could be reduced further if skipper John Nobes also drops out.

The centre back, who missed Sylvans' game against Vale Rec last night, is also suffering from an ankle problem but, in particular, an infected knee for which he is taking antibiotics.

If the captain fails to recover in time for Saturday, new island coach Steve Ogier will settle for just 16 players, Vale's Mark Elliott also having been drafted in.

Ogier confirmed he had been impressed with O'Neill from the moment he saw him lead the Irish line in the 2001 Little World Cup tournament.

'Although the standard is not as high as that of the Priaulx League, he did shine.

'I have also watched him for Bels and he's always looked a good player.

'I think he could play up front or in midfield.'

Ray Queripel, the Bels coach, said the call-up was not before time.

'I would have had him in the original squad. He certainly deserves his chance.'

As for O'Neill's best position?

Queripel: 'I reckon he'd be best just behind the front two - a bit of a Sheringham role.'