Northern Ireland say Gibson is not eligible for the Republic

The Derry-born youngster impressed after coming on as a half-time sub to earn his first cap in Wednesday's 4-0 friendly win over Denmark.

On Thursday, he was not included in the Republic's Under-21 squad for the European qualifier against Portugal.

That suggests he is in Steve Staunton's plans for next month's two games.

Manchester United youngster Gibson is at the centre of a dispute between the Republic and Northern Ireland over his eligibility.

Nigel Worthington has been making attempts to persuade the Londonderry man to switch his allegiance back to Northern Ireland and Staunton will hope that his awarding Gibson a first senior cap ends the controversy.

However, the Irish FA insisted earlier this week that they would continue to press Fifa to rule on Gibson's eligibility even if he played in the non-competitive fixture against the Danes.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to the Republic's win over Denmark

He played for Northern Ireland at under-16 level before switching to the Republic.

On Wednesday night, Gibson made an immediate impact by playing a major part in the Republic's third goal on 54 minutes with Jesper Christiansen unable to hold the substitute's long-range shot and Shane Long reacting to fire home the rebound.

Republic assistant-boss Kevin MacDonald, who stood in for Staunton at the post-match press conference, pointedly praised Gibson's performance.

"It was good for Darron, and he did very very well," said MacDonald.

"I don't think it (the controversy) really affected him. He's quite a level-headed young man, and we hope he will keep progressing."

Meanwhile, Aiden McGeady says he is aiming to secure a regular place in the Republic team after his fine display in Aarhus.

The 21-year-old McGeady has made only four starts since making his Republic debut three years ago.

Aiden McGeady (left) had a fine game against Denmark

But the Celtic player is now pressing for a place in next month's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

"I'm looking to get a run now," said the Glasgow-born midfielder.

McGeady, featuring in an experimental midfield missing the likes of Lee Carsley and Stephen Ireland, played a role in all four of the Republic's goals.

"Obviously you want to show the manager what you're all about and you want to impress on every opportunity you get. Hopefully I have done myself justice," he added.

"I have never really had a run in the first team and only started a few games. It was great to be left on and play the full 90 minutes."

The manner of the victory will certainly send the Republic into the qualifiers in good heart and they realistically need four points next month to maintain their Group D challenge.

McGeady added: "We have got two hard games coming up, but I think that with the performance we can take a lot going into them and it gives us a great boost."