Republic recall thrills Henderson

WORLD CUP QUALIFIER
Bulgaria v Republic of Ireland
Venue: Sofia Date: Saturday, 6 June Kick-off: 1830 BST Coverage: Live text commentary on BBC Sport website

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Henderson ended last season on loan at Grimsby Town

Preston goalkeeper Wayne Henderson is delighted after being recalled to the Republic of Ireland squad following his return to fitness.

The 25-year-old has been added to the senior squad for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria, along with Birmingham keeper Colin Doyle.

"It's a dream come true," Henderson told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"I was going on a family holiday the day of the game but cancelling it is a small sacrifice to make."

Henderson has not played a game at international level since February 2007, which is largely due to a serious back injury that kept him out of action for 19 months.

He ended last season on loan with League Two side Grimsby and helped them avoid relegation.

I played 14 games in eight weeks and came through it feeling better than I thought Wayne Henderson

He said: "Mike Newell gave me the opportunity to prove I was fit again. I played 14 games in eight weeks and came through it feeling better than I thought."

Henderson last played for Preston in August 2007 in the 3-0 home defeat by Colchester.

And he has admitted he has a huge challenge on his hands to reclaim the number one spot from Andrew Lonergan.

"I understand how well Andy has done over the last two years," Henderson said.

"He has been absolutely immense for the club and I am delighted for him because he's had his share of injuries earlier in his career.

"It will take a major effort from myself and maybe a loss of form from Andy to allow me to get back in."