We're finally here. We're finally at the point of genuinely having something to look forward to in terms of Euro 2016. The summer can't come quick enough but, before we actually get there, we have to get a squad together and now we have some names to look over and pick through.
The upcoming friendlies against Switzerland on March 25th and Slovakia on March 29th have long been earmarked as the primary chance for quite a few players on the fringes of Martin O'Neill's squad to make their case for a spot in the final 23. Such has been the desire to see a 'bolter' come out of nowhere, we can almost start calling these games the Alan Judge friendlies.
The likes of Shane Duffy and Jack Byrne have been mentioned as potential late call-ups but it's the Brentford man who has carried the most interest with Martin O'Neill consistently stating that the 27 year old will make his debut at some stage over the next two games. As such, it's no surprise to see the former Blackburn man in the 40 man squad for the upcoming friendlies alongside the likes of first time call-ups Matt Doherty, Jonathan Hayes, and most interestingly of all, Chris Forrester.
Damien Delaney however, misses out and we can now pretty much firmly cross him off the list for Euro 2016.
Wolves defender Doherty and Aberdeen winger Hayes are certainly surprise additions and while Forrester can't have been expecting a call-up his recent performances for Peterborough have certainly seen a bit of a clamour for the former Pats midfielder to be included.
The squad will be shortened ahead of assembling on March 20.
Ireland squad to face Switzerland and Slovakia
O'Neill announces provisional squad for 'Three' International friendlies. https://t.co/fKy7mLwnRc #COYBIG #EURO2016 pic.twitter.com/ww0IhGr42j
— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) March 11, 2016
More to follow.
