Stephen Ward is backed to kick on
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy today backed Stephen Ward to continue his excellent form after he helped to shackle Russia.
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy today backed Stephen Ward to continue his excellent form after he helped to shackle Russia.
Left-back Ward played his part as the Republic of Ireland pulled off an unexpected 0-0 draw on the artificial pitch against the Group B leaders in Moscow last night, keeping their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2012 alive.
Ireland assistant boss Marco Tardelli believes Ward has 'arrived' as international left-back and McCarthy reckons the Dubliner will carry on getting better after his stunning start to the season.
The Wolves boss said: "He will carry on improving because he's getting the experience from playing at international level which will make him a better player.
"There's no doubt about it, he's a Premier League player and he's improved every single season," said the boss. "I love this about all of the lads but Ward in particular has worked at it.
"He's made himself better and won a whole bunch of fans over as well. People perhaps didn't always give him the respect he deserves."