'Have a look at him': Ex-Irish League star backed to help solve Northern Ireland's striker problem
Former Dungannon Swifts star Shane McCabe believes Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill should be paying close attention to in-form John McGovern – and feels the ex-Irish League striker could take a step up to international football in his stride.
McGovern earned a move to League of Ireland champions Shamrock Rovers after impressing for the Swifts – he scored 13 goals across his 34 Premiership matches for the Co Tyrone club alongside netting in their Irish Cup final win over Cliftonville.
Having bided his time for an opportunity in Dublin, McGovern has hit top form at a crucial time for Rovers as they look to clinch another Premier Division crown.
The 23-year-old has scored five goals in his last three league appearances for Stephen Bradley’s side to help them move six points clear at the summit, bringing his season league tally to 10 while McGovern also struck in Champions League qualifying.
McGovern represented Northern Ireland at U21 level – he was in the same team as Ethan Galbraith and Terry Devlin – and has previously stated his desire to play for his country at senior level.
Striker continues to be a problem position for Northern Ireland with O’Neill placing full faith in Jamie Donley, who traditionally plays club football in a deeper role.
Donley has scored twice in 14 international appearances while 36-year-old Josh Magennis was introduced in all four of Northern Ireland’s recent Nations League matches as he closes in on 100 caps.
McCabe, who watched McGovern closely during his time in Dungannon and has continued to track his progress at Rovers, believes he should be considered as an option for future Northern Ireland squads.
"I would like to see Michael O'Neill taking a look at him without a shadow of a doubt,” McCabe told the News Letter. “Most definitely have a look at him, he deserves that.
"John McGovern is in prime position, at a prime age, and he's scoring goals.
"The League of Ireland is a hot league at the minute. You're seeing some of the players going from there over to Premier League clubs.
"I can't see (step up to international football) being a problem for John. He will still do the same things that he's doing now.
"It doesn't matter if it's international or if it's in the League of Ireland, if somebody puts a ball in, John McGovern will attack it.”
Rovers boss Bradley has spoken of the physical adaptation required for McGovern to thrive in full-time football – he previously played GAA for Down, winning the Tailteann Cup in 2024.
Former Newry City youngster McGovern has now seized his opportunity and McCabe believes his patience deserves praise.
"He’s absolutely flying,” he added. “I remember watching John when I was doing radio commentary...he was physical, in immaculate condition, he always has been.
"What a move he has had going to Shamrock Rovers, playing in front of 10,000 or 11,000 in massive matches.
"But it's testament to him that he bided his time. He didn't walk straight into that team, but he's now doing seriously well.
"He has all the right characteristics – pace, power, aggression.
"He maybe had to improve with his back to goal, but he is a handful and he is testament to the Irish League and Dungannon Swifts.”