It was one of the stories of the EUROs, and when plucky Ireland managed to dispatch European heavy-weights Italy in their final group game, many football fans began to stand up and take notice.

And one man in particular that led the Irish charge in that game, and in their other group games, was Robbie Brady. The Norwich City winger seriously impressed out in France and he was one of a handful that showed it wasn't just about Zlatan Ibrahimovic and co during the four weeks the tournament will be on our screens.

Let's face it - the odds were really stacked against Ireland when they were drawn in a group with Italy, Belgium and Sweden. It was arguably the toughest group of the tournament and to qualify by beating the Azzurri was some achievement.

And it's players like Brady that deserve the plaudits for their impressive performances and he has earned a move back to the Premier League following his impressive showing. It's been rumoured that champions Leicester City are interested in bringing the former Manchester United youngster to the King Power Stadium and it's no less than he deserves after an impressive campaign.

But what was it about Brady that stole the headlines, and why does he deserve the chance to shine back in the Premier League?

A good starting point would be his unbelievable ability from set-pieces. While the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic couldn't seemingly hit a barn door, Brady's delivery was consistent time after time. And this was a big part of Ireland's game - when you have the likes of Jon Walters in your side, the chance to swing in good crosses was important.

And don't forget his goalscoring ability either. He was the man that wrote the headlines for the Green and White Army when he nodded home against Antonio Conte's Italy to give them the most famous of victories. And his goals and general performances show just how far he's come since arriving at Old Trafford as a shy 16-year-old.

The story of Ronaldo pushing in front of him in the lunch queue is a well documented one, with the Irishman the one on the receiving end of a Fergie hairdryer for 'not standing up for himself'. It's a strange tale but one that really shows what sort of a player Brady has become - one that may not have been destined for Manchester United fame and success but one who has forged a respectable career in the top flight and on the international circuit too.

So as a move to the champions of England sits well and truly on the cards, it's difficult to imagine the Republic of Ireland's new footballing hero ever being daunted like he was at Old Trafford that day. Robbie Brady - you deserve a move back to the top level.

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