Republic of Ireland coach Mick McCarthy is pleased to see Michael Obafemi get his chance at Southampton.

McCarthy was heartened by word of Obafemi's full Premier League debut for Southampton in the draw with Manchester United.

The Dublin-born teenager, who opted to play for Ireland ahead of England and Nigeria, impressed on the day.

He said: "It would be great to have someone starting every week in the Premier League. Michael played well, apparently. I didn't get to see it but I hope he stays in the team because then I've got a Premier League footballer that I can pick."