West Bromwich Albion signing Shane Long admits he could easily still be playing in Ireland - as a hurling star.
Long is relieved he quit amateur hurling with Tipperary to play football for Cork, leading to him being bought by Reading in 2004.
The Republic of Ireland forward said: "I played hurling until I was 17. I had to give that up to give soccer a go and after six months with Cork City all of a sudden I was over in England.
"I hurled to quite a high level and at the time it was a massive decision to focus on football.
"You can make a career in soccer and feed the family. I have no regrets. Now I am back in the Premier League and I am sure the goals will come."
