Still Eurovision’s most successful country (though Sweden are close to catching them), Ireland’s non-qualification agonies continued last year with a very disappointing result for former-Westlife member, Nicky Byrne. They’ve switched from experience to youth this year with 20-year-old Brendan Murray, handpicked by Louis Walsh. Can he re-ignite Irish success?

It’s a ballad (not unusual for Ireland) and personally I find it hard to say much more than that about this really – I just find it quite dull. His voice is certainly distinctive and I think he should give a very good live performance based on what we’ve seen in Amsterdam. I’m just not sure that will be enough to boost this song’s chances. I’ve been wrong before but with the UK voting in a different semi-final, and two other solo male ballads in his semi-final (Austria and Bulgaria), it could be a tough ask for Brendan to qualify.

Mum’s reaction: No comment

Official music video:

Live at Eurovision in Concert in Amsterdam:

Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest:

First entered: 1965

Appearances (excluding this year): 50

Best result: Winner 1970, 1980, 1987, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996

Last year’s result: 15th in semi-final (did not qualify)