MICHAEL Obafemi has been challenged to prove he can hack it in both international and Premier League football by firing the Republic of Ireland into the European Under-21 Championship finals.

The 20-year-old striker, who made his Ireland debut as a substitute in Denmark almost two years ago, was disappointed not to be included in Stephen Kenny’s first senior squad last month and has had to make due with just two brief appearances as a substitute for Saints so far this season.

However, with Aaron Connolly and Adam Idah with the seniors this time around and Troy Parrott injured, Obafemi has a chance to make a name for himself at Under-21s level on Tuesday as Ireland attempt to ease their way closer to qualification against Italy in Pisa.

Manager Jim Crawford said: “I had a long conversation with Michael and he was great. He said that he was looking forward to coming into camp and he was going to give everything, and he’s been true to his word since the first minute he arrived.

“Michael’s bubbly anyway, that’s his nature, but when it’s come to training sessions, he’s very effective and he’s looking forward to the challenge.

“I know things haven’t been great for him at club level at the minute – he’s only played just over 25 minutes with his club, Southampton, and okay, it’s the senior squad.

“But what an opportunity and platform for him to go and prove himself to the manager at Southampton and to the senior manager to say, ‘Don’t forget me in your plans because I can play at this level’.”