Dowds has a new level to hit
“Stevie’s the right person within the group,” the boss said. “He has a leadership and he hasn’t made the Irish squad so he’ll be about a bit more. He’s the right choice at the right time. “I think it’s a big year for Stevie. He has a huge role to play. He needs to prove he’s one of the best forwards in the country, week in, week out and especially in the big games.
“There’s a mindset that comes with that but he’s more than capable of it. He has the potential to be a big, big player for us. He scores a lot of goals but he has another lvel to go to.
“He has got himself into good shape and is working very hard in his gym sessions so I couldn’t ask any more of him.”