Scott Hogan has revealed his wish to fire the Republic of Ireland to next year's rearranged European Championships.
While the striker has been on fire for Birmingham City since making the switch from Aston Villa in January with seven goals in eight league appearances, it has been a different story at international level.
Handed his debut by former Villa boss Martin O'Neill in 2018, Hogan has appeared eight times without finding the net.
"In reference to my own personal international career, if I’m allowed to swear I would swear because it has not gone well at all," he said.
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"When I’ve pulled on the green jersey, I haven’t done anything and I understand that. That’s the thing that hurts me a lot, I haven’t done anything to warrant playing for the national team."
But buoyed by a stunning return to form at St Andrew's, Hogan wants to play his part in securing a place at Euro 2020 for Ireland, who will face Slovakia in a semi-final play-off later this year.
"I’ve got to prove to the lads and the coaching staff that I can play as a striker at international level for this country," the 28-year-old, who qualifies for Ireland through his grandparents, told BoyleSports.
"A lot of people will disagree with that because of what's gone on in the past, but they can think that.
"I think I could fit in well with how they want to go about their football and it would be a dream to play in two major tournaments. Six years ago I’d never thought that was possible.
"We could get Euro 2020 group games in Dublin and it would be great for the country, it’s what we all want. So there will be a lot of hard work now to force my way in and prove myself.
"If I had one wish for the next 12 months it would be to be part of the side and even to score the winning goal to get us to the Euros."
It comes after Hogan gave an update on his future, speaking of his desire to sign for Blues permanently once his loan spell expires at the end of the season.
Having cost £12m from Brentford three years ago, Hogan has another year left to run on his current contract at Villa Park.
He said: "I have made friends there, they have made me feel at home so I will be happy to do it if it comes about."
