NORWICH City midfielder Wes Hoolahan says scoring for Republic of Ireland at the European Championship Finals on Monday is one of the highlights of his career to date.

The 34-year-old swept home a superb half-volley early in the second half of his side's Group E opener against Sweden to break the deadlock, before Ciaran Clark's own goal ensured a share the spoils.

Discussing his strike with reporters after the game, Hoolahan said: "It's up there in my career; to get a goal for Ireland at the Euros is a great achievement.

"It was a fantastic set-up by Seamus [Coleman] and I caught it on the half-volley. I was delighted to see it go into the back of the net.

"Fair play to the boys, they were magnificent and we were unlucky not to get the three points in the end. Unfortunately in the last 20 minutes we probably let it get away from us but we'll take the point."

Named as Ireland's Man of the Match while making his bow at a major international tournament, Hoolahan pointed to a collective team effort - which also included an impressive display from City's Robbie Brady.

"The boys can be proud of ourselves because we put in a great performance," the Norwich fans' favourite added.

"We started well in the first half and created a lot of chances, and we were excellent in the second half as well. It was end-to-end stuff and I'm sure it was a great game to watch.

"We'll take this result and look forward to playing Belgium next."

To view the full Euro 2016 programme for our players, click HERE.

WES HOOLAHAN: IT'S UP THERE

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