Why are we asking you to sign in? Find out more here
By continuing, you are indicating that you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .
Why are we asking you to sign in? Find out more here
By continuing, you are indicating that you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .
Evan Ferguson and Will Smallbone called up to Ireland squad for Norway and Malta friendlies
BRIGHTON STRIKER EVAN Ferguson and Stoke City midfielder Will Smallbone have both earned their first senior call-ups as Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has named a 26-man squad for the upcoming friendlies against Norway and Malta.
Jamie McGrath has been called up for the first time since 2021. The midfielder had not been playing regularly at Wigan and has made eight appearances for Dundee United since going to the Scottish club on loan this season, scoring his first goal there last night against Kilmarnock.
Notable absentees include Ryan Manning, who has impressed with Swansea City, Conor Coventry, who has seen recent European game-time with West Ham, and Wolves’ Joe Hodge.
Shane Duffy and Jason Knight also both failed to make the 26.
Middlesbrough defender Darragh Lenihan returns to the squad after injury ruled him out of the September international window and Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is also named after his impressive display in the penalty shoot-out victory last night for Liverpool in the EFL Cup.
Aberdeen defender Liam Scales and Wigan Athletic striker Will Keane also come into the squad.
Ireland will face Norway at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday 17 November, with kick-off at 7.45pm.
Kenny’s side then travel to Ta’Quli to face Malta at the National Stadium at 7pm on Sunday 20 November to finish their 2022 schedule.
Republic of Ireland squad:
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
COYBIG Ireland squad announcement