Republic boss O'Neill thrilled by Brady display against USA
Last updated on .From the section Football
![Robbie Brady [right] after scoring his late free-kick against the USA as team-mate David Meyler also celebrates](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/624/mcs/media/images/79137000/jpg/_79137745_bradymeyler.jpg)
Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill was thrilled by Robbie Brady's two-goal display in Tuesday's 4-1 friendly win over the United States.
With Stephen Ward absent, O'Neill opted to start winger Brady at left-back and after restoring the Republic's lead, the Hull man netted a late free-kick.
"He's got great attitude - I was really delighted for him," said O'Neill.
"He was in such a confident mood, I felt he would score from the free-kick."
O'Neill added: "And for the second goal for him to be following up and to be on the edge of the penalty area and to score from the left-back position, it was great.
"He has things to improve on as a defender - he knows that himself - but he is an excellent footballer."
The Republic manager handed Shay Given a 127th international cap and the keeper also lauded 22-year-old Brady's display.
| Republic of Ireland's remaining Euro 2016 qualifiers | |
|---|---|
| 29 March 2015: Poland (h) | 13 June: Scotland (h) |
| 4 September: Gibraltar (a) | 7 September: Georgia (h) |
| 8 October: Germany (h) | 11 October: Poland (a) |
"Robbie had a fantastic finish for the last goal and even his first goal was a great finish as well," said Given, 38.
The Republic keeper got to see debutant Cyrus Christie, 22, at close quarters and Given was impressed with the Derby full-back's display.
"Cyrus probably settled into it more in the second half as well when he bombed forward a few times and got some great balls into the box.
"He's only young as well and he's got a big future ahead of him."
For his part, Christie was delighted at being given the chance to prove himself.
"This is my first international game. I have never, ever been to watch one, so to come and make my debut is a fantastic achievement," said the Derby right-back.
Ipswich striker David McGoldrick was also handed a derby in Tuesday's friendly and made an immediate impression as he helped set up two of the Republic's goals.
"I'm confident in my ability. I would rather have had the two goals myself, but two assists is good, and the win," added the 26-year-old.
