Will these Everton and Southampton stars be vital for Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2016 hopes?

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Shane Long

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Southampton forward Shane Long enjoyed his most prolific season to date during the 2015/16 Campaign, netting 10 goals in the Premier League.

Whilst this may not seem that spectacular, anyone who has watched the forward play this season will know that he gives so much more than just goals, with the tireless 29-year-old constantly pressurising defenders and making unselfish runs for his team.

His energy will be crucial for the Republic this summer and may well be the factor that takes them past the group stages.

Shane Long will play Italy who have Andrea Barzagli (age 35) and Giorgio Chiellini (age 31) at the heart of their defence. Whilst the pair are no doubt fantastic defenders, they’re not the most mobile anymore and Long will be expected to exploit the Juventus defenders’ weaknesses.

Long has proven he can score against anyone having netted the winner against Germany back in October and whilst it is not certain that the Saints man will start, he is certainly going to be a threat for Martin O’Neill.