Ipswich Town forward Sammie Szmodics is optimistic about scoring his first international goal for the Republic of Ireland, building on his recent success with Town in the Premier League, where he has already netted three goals this season.
Szmodics made a memorable impact in Ipswich’s recent 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, emulating Finidi George’s iconic overhead kick from the same fixture 22 years prior. That game, which also ended 2-1, marked the end of a long Premier League winless streak for Ipswich.
The 29-year-old, who joined the Blues from Blackburn for £9 million after scoring three early-season goals there, is eager to carry his scoring form into international matches. Ireland will host Finland on Thursday in Dublin before facing England at Wembley on Sunday.
“Goals add confidence to your game,” Szmodics said during a press conference with assistant manager John O’Shea. “My first [Premier League] goal came in my second game, so it’s not like I have been chasing a goal and waiting for my first Premier League goal. I’ve scored three now, as a squad we have our first win, and we can build on that.”
Reflecting on his journey with Ireland, he added, “I’m waiting for that Irish goal, that first one. Eight caps. Performances have been good, probably something I’m missing. Once I get the one, and the confidence in front of goal, I’ll continue to get them and hopefully cement a place in the starting XI.”
Szmodics, who debuted for Ireland in a match against Belgium, explained how significant it was for him and his family. He noted, “To get that first goal would be very special. Hopefully it comes on Thursday with many more to follow. It’s a case of not overthinking it all, and my qualities will shine through.”
With his Irish eligibility stemming from a Longford-born grandmother, Szmodics believes the squad is close to achieving consistency under new Icelandic manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, appointed in the summer. “Really close,” he remarked. “At club level, everyone plays differently. At national level, you all need to play the same. Everything is different when you come away with Ireland.”
Emphasizing a strong start in matches, he stated, “We’ve got to get up for it from minute one. If it’s the mental side of things, it’s a way of overcoming that, which I think we can as a group. We’re all aware of it.”
Commenting on his influence within the team, Szmodics said, “A bit loud and bubbly. I was probably annoying, and it’s lucky we only spend a week with each other because they’d get sick of me!”
Reflecting on his path to the Premier League, Szmodics shared, “I’m 29 now. When you get to 26, 27, 28 you start thinking of the Premier League as just a dream and you’ll never get there. It comes from hard work, believing in yourself, and people like coaches over the years around believing in you.”
Assistant manager John O’Shea praised Szmodics’ commitment: “The first time I spoke to Sammie and saw him play, it was a case of get him over and get him in that green shirt as quick as possible. It’s a classic example of what sacrifice and dedication can do for your career in football.”
