Stoke hero Rory Delap made his Republic of Ireland international debut a decade ago but has only 11 caps to his name. The 32 year old midfielder has not been called up by his country since a knee complaint forced him to miss out in April 2004.

And while he is enjoying terrorising top-flight defences with his long throws he does not expect the increased publicity to make an impact on Republic boss Giovanni Trapattoni.

"It's been good for my kids, seeing my ugly mug in the papers. I'm not going to get any modelling contracts but you've got to enjoy it," he said.

"I've been asked about Ireland a little bit recently but I don't think so. I'm getting on a bit now. He (Trapattoni) has a young squad now and they're doing well at the moment.

"There have been 'B' internationals and big training squads of 40-odd and I haven't had the call, but never say never."