Mick McCarthy: "On a night where we haven't been clinical, we've still scored three goals"

Andrew Dempsey reports from Aviva Stadium

Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy admits he was pleased with his side’s performance on Tuesday evening – with a three-one win proving to cap off another positive international break with a win.

The Boys in Green struggled in the opening period but soon found a second wind in the closing stages of the game to pull clear of their Bulgarian counterparts.

“Ultimately, the result pleased me tonight,” McCarthy said during his press conference.  

“Because, if we sat here and we had lost three-one it would be a lot different.

There was some really good performances from Josh Cullen and Alana Browne. I loved James Collins’ performance up front.

“Jack Byrne lit the place up to be fair with his passing, creating two goals and all of those things pleased me. I’m not knocking others, but some did better than others.

“Jack is so effective when he’s up the pitch. He’s got goals in him and his passes were brilliant. Lets just put this into perspective though.

“What would happen if the Swiss players would be running off him in midfield? When we needed to create something, he came on and did that, which I’m pleased about.”

With plenty left impressed by Byrne’s cameo, the former Ipswich Town boss added; “Yes, to change the game I might use him. If we need a goal, he’s got that in him, and we might use that.”

With plenty of fringe players stepping up to the plate, the 60-year-old said; “I thought John Egan was great as captain. Sometimes the captain’s armband can effect players in a negative way - but our defensive record is so good with Duffy and Keogh so it's hard for him" #IRLBUL

"I think we weren't very good at creating chances. But on a night where we haven't been clinical, we've still scored three goals.”

And when asked if we would consider staying on past his current deal, McCarthy quickly shot down any notions that he may stay.

“No, there you go.”