Jonny Hayes backs Aberdeen defender to break into Republic of Ireland squad

Jonny Hayes believes Aberdeen defender Gavin Molloy has what it takes to break into the Republic of Ireland squad after an impressive start at Pittodrie.

The centre-back was the first signing of the summer as the Jimmy Thelin rebuild began to take shape, and since his arrival he has become an ever-present member of the team.

The 23-year-old signed a three-year deal with the Dons after impressing with Shelbourne in the League of Ireland, and has two assists in 18 appearances this term, forming a solid partnership with Slobodan Rubezic at the back.

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Former Dons veteran Hayes has now thrown his weight behind his fellow Irishman to break onto the international scene, as he recalled on the experiences of a former Reds defender who also propelled himself into Ireland's squad after impressing in the Granite City.

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Hayes told Gambling.com: "Yeah [he should be considered for future Irish squads], I think he has been doing really well. It’s still a big ask from him to be honest - I've done it.

"Going from playing week in, week out for Aberdeen; to then trying to nail down a starting spot with Ireland, it's a huge ask.

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"It was similar with Liam Scales, who is probably a couple of steps ahead of Gavin in terms of playing in the Champions League and doing really well, and he's still not nailed on to start for Ireland. It's a big jump and all Gavin can do is keep improving.

"He's still quite young and I know Damien Duff spoke very highly of him, so he's got massive potential and there's no reason why he shouldn't be aiming to get an Irish squad in the not-so-distant future."