Since moving to SSE Airtricity side Drogheda United Sean Roughan and Sam Long have received acclaim for their performances, with both young Imps receiving call ups for the Republic of Ireland U19 and Scotland U21 sides respectively.
During Sean’s time with the Republic he faced some of the most widely talked about young players in football, playing against Dane Scarlett, Liam Delap, Harvey Vale and, of course, Brooke Norton-Cuffy.
Sean said: “It was so good. To have the privilege to represent your country is such an honour. Playing the likes of England and Portugal was a great experience and all the lads gave there all in three games and come away not qualifying was gutting.
“We should have got more wins than we did but that’s football and we leave with our heads held high because I felt we did the country proud.
“As a young footballer it’s the level everyone dreams of playing at and getting to play against those players week in week out is the level I want to get to in my career. They’re good players but we knew that we also have quality so we didn’t fear anybody we came up against.”
Roughan was a standout for the Drogs during March, earning himself a nomination for the league’s player of the month
He added: “I think this is the most I’ve enjoyed my football in a long time. I’m getting regular game time and really enjoying it long may it continue. Coming back from a good few set backs was hard but I look at it now and it’s made me a better and stronger person and taught me not to take football for granted. So hopefully next season with all the games I’ve played over and gaining first team experience I can get regular game time at Lincoln.
“Sam and I have settled well. For me it was easier because I’m back home but Sam has dealt with the change of environment well. It’s good having Sam here with me - I’ve played with him for so long that on the pitch it makes life easier.”
Sam added: “I was really honoured to get the call up. Even though I didn’t get the chance to play I really enjoyed the experience with the squad.
"Over here I’m learning every week and I feel like I’m progressing with each game. it’s a different environment but I’m getting used to it and the team have been really good helping me settle in.”
"Sean looks really comfortable and seems to be enjoying it especially now he’ back with his family. He’s been an outstanding player in the team so far and long may that continue."
