Republic of Ireland defender Dara O'Shea says he's enjoying the chance to start for his country. 

The 22-year-old West Brom player has won five caps under Stephen Kenny and is expected to be picked in the heart of the defence for tonight's must-win World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg.

“It’s great to get the opportunity to play these games, games for your country where there’s something on the line, something at stake," O'Shea said at the pre-match press conference where he praised Shane Duffy's mentoring this week.

"It’s sink or swim, you have to take your opportunity, football is all about taking opportunities and not looking too far ahead."

The Dubliner has made 22 Premier League appearances for his club this season and he's not been phased by the step up.

“It has happened very quickly, obviously for me to play it’s a great feeling. But I don’t just want to play, I want to win. I want to dominate. I need to take everything I can and utilise this experience going forward.

“We have some great players here, some players who have so many caps for their country, who have captained their country. I want to do that instead, so I’ve got to take bits, and use that going forward.

“It’s tough when you have a short period to turn around, everyone is sore after the game on Wednesday night but everyone’s recovering well, they’re doing their bits and doing the best they can to prepare in the right way and I think this game is going to come at a good time.”