Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni believes it is crucial for Darron Gibson to play regular first-team football and has advised him to leave Manchester United.
The Derry born midfielder scored his first international goal in Ireland's 3-0 victory over Wales on Tuesday night, driving home a fantastic long-range effort.
Trapattoni is excited about the 23-year-old's potential but fears his career will not fully lift off while he remains at Old Trafford.
While the Italian can understand why anyone would want to play for such a major club, he feels it is more important for Gibson to get more experience.
Gibson has yet to cement a regular starting spot in the United midfield and often finds himself providing back-up to the other first-choice midfielders.
With competition for places so fierce, Trapattoni feels Gibson should start considering a future elsewhere.
"He can do more. He has a big potential. If I was Gibson I would go to another group where I always play," Trapattoni said on Sky Sports News.
"By doing this you can build your mentality.
"Manchester is Manchester and it is an important club, but sometimes the young players need to play, play and play. It builds confidence."
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