Republic of Ireland boss Kenny convinced by potential of Brighton striker Connolly | OneFootball

Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny is convinced by the potential of Brighton striker Aaron Connolly.

Connolly needed a late Shane Duffy header to secure a 1-1 draw at home to Azerbaijan on Saturday.

He had been taken off at half-time, having started wide on the left and looked quite lively at times.

Kennhy said: “I think Aaron Connolly is at only about 70% of his potential at the moment.

“There is so much more from him.

“He did a brilliant job for us the other night (in Portugal).

“Aaron punched holes in that left channel all night and was an outlet for us all night. He carried the ball with such pace.

“But probably because he has not been playing regularly and other issues, I think he can be so much better.

“He has a lot of potential. We have to nurture him and try to get him to fulfil that."

Kenny answered suggestions that Connolly goes down too easily.

He said: “Aaron has a low centre of gravity and the way he dribbles at pace, he is always going to invite tackles.

“Because he is so quick, inevitably he will get his fair share of free-kicks and penalties."