New Ireland women's soccer star speaks of her Offaly roots

A PLAYER with Offaly roots made her debut for the Republic of Ireland women's soccer team at the weekend.

Caitlin Hayes, whose late grandfather James Hayes was from the Faithful County, was born in Warrington, England and plays for Celtic in Glasgow.

She received her Irish passport just before linking up with the Ireland squad for the UEFA Nations League match against Northern Ireland in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin on Saturday.

“My grandfather James is Irish, he's from Co Offaly, and obviously that side, my dad's (Duane Hayes) side is Irish, so it was a dream that I've been chasing for a while,” said Caitlin.

She was delighted to team up with the Ireland squad under interim boss Eileen Gleeson for what was the women's first ever appearance at the redeveloped Lansdowne Road venue.

“It's incredible to come to such an environment and a group of girls and honestly, just be a sponge, learn off them and hopefully bring a little to the table,” said Caitlin.

Caitlin initially came through at Everton before attending Mississippi College and then launched her senior career with Lewes ahead of joining Celtic in 2020.

She remembers Ireland and Celtic shirts being in her house when she was growing up, sent to her by her grandfather.

The match on Saturday was Ireland's first following their appearance in the World Cup and the departure of team manager Vera Pauw.

“It's a great honour and privilege to be around these girls each and every day,” added Caitlin.

“The girls have been great, very warm, very welcoming, I can't really ask for more... the coaching staff have been great. It's different to be in a new environment.

“I'm over the moon, just grateful for the team to be on that stage and it's where they belong.”

The player performed well on the evening as the Republic defeated Northern Ireland 3-0 in front of 36,000 fans with goals from Lucy Quinn, Kyra Carusa and substitute Lily Agg.