Robbie Brady has thanked Republic of Ireland fans for giving him moments that he will "never forget" at Euro 2016.
Versatile Norwich City player Brady, 24, emerged as one of the stars of the Irish campaign, which ended with a 2-1 defeat against host country France in Lyon on Sunday.
Having been handed a more attacking midfield role as the tournament wore on, Brady will forever be remembered in Ireland for scoring the goal that earned them a 1-0 win over Italy and a place in the round of 16.
Brady also gave his side a shock lead against France. However, he said that spending several minutes watching Irish fans salute their team after the full-time whistle was one of his most memorable experiences.
"It's not just the goals," the ex-Manchester United and Hull City player told reporters in Lyon. "There's different moments. Even at the end there, standing in front of the fans, is something you'll never forget.
"So, thanks to them for giving us that moment, because I'll never forget it."
Republic of Ireland supporters have proved one of the success stories of the tournament, with their cheerful outlook, good behaviour and strong backing for the team being regularly praised in the French press.
Monday's edition of sports paper L'Equipe had another feature on them entitled "Ireland won... in the stands" and the article also noted that "truly, we will miss them."
Once again you have proved yourselves as the best fans in the world. Thank you for your incredible support! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/3vl50BrVeC
- FAIreland (@FAIreland) June 26, 2016
Ireland captain Seamus Coleman also heaped praise on the fans, but he suggested that the battling performances at Euro 2016 showed that they now have a team to be proud of too.
"The bond between the fans and the players is something special," Coleman said. "Our fans are immense and we're so proud of them, as I'm sure they are of us. It means a lot to us.
"Not just who were at today's game, but the fans who are at the Sweden game, the Belgium game and the Italy game, they've all played a big part -- and all the fans sitting in their houses back home watching it.
"There is that bond and it would have been nice if we could have just gone one further."