Kevin Doyle revealed that he found out about his exclusion from the Irish squad for Euro 2016 via the news, rather than from Martin O'Neill.
The Colorado Rapids striker had harbored hopes of sneaking into the final 23 man panel ahead of kick-off in France next week, but admitted that he knew his chances were slim, particularly after failing to make an appearance against Holland or Belarus.
"In the end, I found out who was in the squad by watching the news as it was confirmed like everyone else and it certainly added drama to proceedings," Doyle wrote in his column for the Sunday World.
“I don’t think there were any great shocks in the final panel that was confirmed just before the deadline on Tuesday, so the squad could have been announced earlier and those of us who missed out placed on standby in case of injuries.
“Every manager does things differently, it’s a tough job that never pleases everybody and this manager sees this as a way of keeping people on their toes."
Robbie Keane celebrates with Kevin Doyle after scoring against Cyprus in 2009.
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie
He also spoke of the decision to bring Robbie Keane to the Championships, with the former Reading player believing his experience will be invaluable to the squad.
"There was a lot of debate over whether Keane should be included and his selection may well have affected my own position, but I full agree with the decision.
"Robbie is our star player, the one name every other nation in the world will be aware of in the Ireland squad."
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