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Sean Maguire feels ready to step up and fill the void left by Robbie Keane’s retirement.

The Republic of Ireland have been crying out for a finisher ever since the country’s all-time record scorer retired 19 months ago.

Maguire smashed 20-league goals in half a season for Cork City last year - and has five in four games for Preston since returning from a four-month injury layoff.

The Kilkenny man will win his second cap in tomorrow’s friendly against Turkey here in Antalya - and he claims he is not fazed by the weight of expectation.

(Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne)

Maguire said yesterday: "To be mentioned in the same bracket as Robbie Keane is an achievement in itself.

“There has not been that goalscorer since he left. I just need to keep working hard and if that opportunity arises then I feel I’ll take it.

“I scored a lot of goals with Cork, I've scored a few goals at Preston and when the chance arises tomorrow night then I feel I can step up.”