Player name: Andy Townsend

Nationality: Although born in England, Andy Townsend represented the Republic of Ireland at international level.

Place and date of birth: Born 23 July 1963 in Maidstone, Kent, England.

International team: Republic of Ireland (senior international)

International career summary:

• Caps: 70 (Republic of Ireland)
• Goals: 7 (Republic of Ireland)
• Major tournaments: Played at UEFA Euro 1988 and the 1990 FIFA World Cup and 1994 FIFA World Cup finals with the Republic of Ireland.

Club career (selected highlights):

• Early clubs: Started at non-league sides before moving to professional football (e.g., Epsom & Ewell, before gaining prominence).
• Norwich City (1986–1989): Established himself in top-flight English football and earned international recognition.
• Newcastle United (briefly in 1989): Short spell.
• Queens Park Rangers (1989–1993): Important midfield figure.
• Coventry City (1993–1998): Key player, including in the Premier League era.
• Later career: Finished playing with lower-league clubs before retirement.

Position: Central midfielder (known for work-rate, passing and defensive contribution)

Background / eligibility: Although born in England, Townsend qualified to play for the Republic of Ireland through ancestry and chose to represent Ireland at senior level. He is not Albanian.

Post-playing career: After retiring, Townsend worked as a football pundit and commentator and has been involved in coaching and media work.