It’s business as usual for Mason Melia, while the rest of the football world loses its mind over the teenage sensation.

A record-breaking agreement to join Premier League side Tottenham next January, after he turns 18? That’s not going to faze him.

A record-breaking goal for Ireland’s Under-21s last month? Same.

So a key role in tonight’s big Dublin derby between St Patrick’s Athletic and Shelbourne isn’t going to bother this brilliant 17-year-old.

Melia will lead the line for Pat’s tonight in the absence of the injured five-goal star Aidan Keena, and Kenny is certain that the occasion won’t get to the youngster.

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“He’s hungry,” declared the Saints boss. “He was frustrated when he was out injured (in pre-season), he felt he was alright.

“We just had to look after him and there was a time-frame we had to adhere to.

“He came in, didn't have a full pre-season, he came on in a few games and started in the (number) 10 (role) against Derry and did very well.

“He started in the 10 and won a penalty against Shamrock Rovers, he hit the bar in that match. It was a difficult game for him, he ended up playing a bit deeper.

“He came on and got his goal here (against Bohemians) which was terrific. He got another goal with the Under-21s (against Hungary), and he’s playing as a number nine, which is his best position last week.

“Certainly he’ll start (against Shelbourne). He just loves playing football. He is passionate and hungry and just wants to enjoy his football.”

So Melia is taking it all in his stride?

“Very much so,” replied Kenny.

No sense of anything fazing him?

“No. Nothing really,” Kenny said. “We all know every single day we have to prove ourselves, every single game is a new challenge, you can’t get ahead of yourself.

“He’s not overawed by (all the outside noise). He is just taking it in his stride, he lives in Newtown in Wicklow and has a family there to protect him in that regard.

“He’s a man now, he’s only 17 but he carries himself as a man, he is a strong boy and wants to make his mark in life.

“Football is his vehicle for that. He’s very talented and loves playing football. He just wants to be on the pitch and he’ll get the chance (tonight).”

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