CLUBS are lining up to interview Irish prospect Conor McKenna after his starring role for the European Legion last week in London.

The 18-year-old was almost best on ground in the Legion's combined game with the AIS-AFL Academy, in which he kicked four goals and showed his speed and run.

It was his first ever game of Australian football and his talents didn't go unnoticed, with up to six clubs believed to have interviewed him in recent weeks.

He was first identified at December's talent combine in Ireland, where Essendon sent a scout to take in proceedings.

The Bombers have continued to speak with the 178cm player and monitor his progress, and the young Gaelic player from Tyrone said he had also spoken with a number of other clubs.

"Geelong, Collingwood, Western Bulldogs and West Coast have all been talking to me in the last week," McKenna told AFL.com.au.

"It was strange at the start but all clubs are asking the same questions about my family and background, what I think of the experience, and whether I want to go to Australia.

"I do definitely want to come over.

"It'd be an unbelievable experience if I get a chance to go. It's a good thing I suppose that there's clubs talking – you're a better chance to get over."

Tour diary: part one
Tour diary: part two

Things are moving fast for McKenna, who finishes his education in Ireland in the next few weeks.

He had only one session with the Sherrin before his week with the European Legion, where in two games with and against the Academy he had a chance to showcase his skills and see the opportunities an AFL career could present him.

"I found it harder during the training sessions because you overthink too much, but when you're out on the pitch you just do things you can and it works," he said.

"I like running with the ball in hand rather than waiting for it."

Coached by Sydney Swans premiership player Tadhg Kennelly, McKenna has quizzed the Irishman about his own experiences in moving to Australia, and feels more confident for the chat.

"He said his first two years were horrible and he just wanted to go home but he stuck at it and he's one of the top players in the AFL," McKenna said.

"I just hope to do the same and go over and have a good season."

Port Adelaide's Irish recruit Daniel Flynn
also played for the Legion last week and appears likely to resume his AFL career with the Power after returning home in March.

Flynn has also told McKenna of the challenges that come with the move, but he isn't perturbed.

"It's still something I want to do. Worst comes to worst, you go over for two years and come home, but you can go and love it for the rest of your life," he said.

Twitter: @AFL_CalTwomey

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