Newcastle United striker Leon Best hopes to make a late run for the Republic of Ireland Euros squad.

Best returned to training this week and has sent a text message to Ireland's assistant boss Marco Tardelli to stay in manager Giovanni Trapattoni's thoughts.

"All I am thinking about is the Euros. My aim isn't just to finish the season strongly, my aim is to get into the Irish squad and have a good Euros," Best said.

"I texted Marco when I had my first session back. It's coming to the end of the season but for me I feel like my season is just starting.

"Marco didn't text me back so maybe that's not a good sign."