‘We have to get some points off these top teams’ – Debut boy Mark McGuinness admits Ireland need to lift levels

Former Under-21 cap McGuinness had a harsh introduction to life as a senior player as his debut came in the side's heaviest defeat in 12 years.

Next up is a March clash with the likes of Slovakia or Armenia in a relegation play-off before more games against higher-ranked nations in the World Cup qualifiers but the Luton Town man knows there is work to be done.

"The frustrating part is that we have a long break until we meet up, but it also gives us time to work on stuff and go back to our clubs and get the head down and freshen up," he said.

"We will review this and see where we did well and where we can improve on. We have to get some points off these top teams if we're going to progress in major competitions.

When the penalty was scored and Liam Scales was sent off, the players lost all their belief

"We showed glimpses of how we can compete against higher-ranked teams. We believe in with we do and I think we've to stay with that for positivity going into the next camp.

"A few times we were a bit sloppy in our possession and transition which we knew we needed to sharpen up on going into the game.

"That didn't help because we were solid in the first half and going down a man breaks that rhythm for us, they were all off set pieces I think. It's something we feel we should be strong aerially as we're physical and dominant, so that's disappointing."

On a personal level it was a big deal for former Arsenal man McGuinness to make his debut in London.

There will be pressure for places in the squad for the March camp, even with a suspension for Liam Scales, as defenders like Shane Duffy, Andrew Omobamidele and John Egan could become available.

"Mixed emotions as it was a very tough game and not what we wanted. Still, a really proud moment for me and my family and I'm really proud of that regardless of the result, but we still wanted to win and felt that going into this game, we had a lot of confidence and I think that's hurt us the most," he added.

"You've never got the jersey but you've to work and earn it. I'll go away with Luton to play well. I've a big job to do there too. My focus is play well and hopefully meet the boys in the next window."