Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has been buoyed by the form of strikers Troy Parrott and Evan Ferguson in the build-up to the start of World Cup qualifying.
Parrott has impressed since moving to AZ Alkmaar from Tottenham, scoring 20 goals in all competitions last season and adding 10 already this term.
Hallgrimsson has also been pleased by Ferguson’s start to life at Roma after joining the Italians on loan from Brighton.
Parrott, 23, was linked with a move back to England over the summer but opted to remain in the Eredivisie and Hallgrimsson feels that “stability” will benefit the player.
“Troy has been on fire from pre-season and last season as well, so it’s a good step for him,” said Hallgrimsson, whose team face World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia next month.
“I know there was a lot of interest in him but he wanted to stay. I really like that as he needs stability and if he continues like this, it’s really good for us.”
