Two of Ireland’s senior squad members - John O’Shea and Paul McShane - were schooled through Manchester United’s academy and O’Shea believes that Darron Gibson will be the next Irishman to emerge from Old Trafford to become an international star.

O’Shea is set to win his 36th senior cap for the Republic of Ireland’s in Wednesday’s EURO 2008 qualifying match against San Marino at the Serravalle Stadium (kick-off 7.45pm, Irish time) but it’s the first call-up to the national squad for 19-year old Gibson.

Derry native Gibson featured for Ireland’s U19 team during the 2005/6 season and played in the ‘B’ international against Scotland in November 2006.

He is spending this season on loan at Belgian second division side Royal Antwerp, United’s feeder club where O’Shea also had a four-month loan stint in 2001.

McShane underwent a similar upbringing at United but only gained international recognition when he left Old Trafford for West Bromwich Albion in August 2006.

Ireland manager Stephen Staunton handed McShane his senior debut at centre-back against the Czech Republic and O’Shea feels that Gibson has the ability to follow the trend of his United predecessors.

“I’ve seen first-hand at United how good Darron is and he’s a huge asset to our international team,” said O’Shea.

“He has a big presence in midfield, is someone with a great strike of the ball and all he needs now is a break. He came away with our first-team for the pre-season tour of South Africa and is helping Royal Antwerp’s push for promotion towards the Belgian First Division.

“You never know; if someone gets an injury with Ireland, he could get into the team and I’ve no doubt he won’t let anyone down.