Hoolahan relishing starring role in Canaries’ top-flight ambitions

Now showcasing his creative talents on the Premier League platform, Wes Hoolahan is proving exactly why Republic of Ireland fans are endlessly keen to see his name appear in their nation’s starting line-up for every passing fixture.

During the weekend’s action, the Dubliner starred for Norwich City in a 3-1 victory over former Championship rivals and fellow promoted outfit Bournemouth, superbly gifting Cameron Jerome with the chance to open proceedings before netting the second himself.

Hoolahan was at his freeflowing best, producing one his most memorable club performances to date, gracefully nutmegging Cherries defender Steve Cook to set up Jerome and sumptuously striking the second from the edge of the box. The Canaries are now 9/4 with Coral to go down this term.

The 33-year-old Irish playmaker’s cross for the opener, which he provided while grasping his shinpad that had come loose, took his season assist tally level with Manchester City creative genius David Silva on four.

Hoolahan was evidently delighted at such a potent performance, after being given the freedom to express himself in that pivotal creative role, a position he relishes.

“It was a good performance,” the modest Irishman stated. “Especially the first goal, getting down the line and getting a little touch on it set us up nicely for the day.”

The Canaries’ creative spark carried previous international momentum back to his club duties, having starred alongside Norwich teammate Robbie Brady for Martin O’Neill’s Boys in Green during Euro 2016 qualifying wins over the Faroe Islands and Georgia.

Hoolahan was constantly overlooked by former Irish boss Giovanni Trapattoni during his reign, but since the arrival of O’Neill, the Dubliner has been utilised more regularly, though has only recently begun to perform to his utmost ability in green.