Stephen Kenny has named his Republic of Ireland squad for the game against Latvia and France later this month, with two uncapped players being included in the 26-man list.
Mikey Johnston and Will Smallbone have both been included, with the former having had his eligibility confirmed just last week.
Johnston, who is currently on loan at Vitor Guimaraes from Celtic, had previously represented Scotland up to U21 level.
Will Smallbone was called up for the games back in November, but did not play against Norway or Malta. He has been on strong form on loan Stoke City in recent times, being named as their Player of the Month for February.
The likes of Shane Duffy, Enda Stevens, Callum Robinson, and Aaron Connolly were all unavailable for selection due to injury.
Evan Ferguson has also been included and looks set to make his competitive debut against France. Andrew Omobamidele and Adam Idah have also come back into the fold after their injury issues.
Robbie Brady has not been included.
There is also no place for Ryan Manning despite his strong form at Swansea City and the lack of natural left wingbacks in the squad. Blackburn Rovers midfielder Sammie Szmodics, who also had their eligibility confirmed in recent days, is also absent from the list.
The likes of Joe Hodge and Tom Cannon, who some had expected to be in the frame for this squad, are not on the list having been called up by Jim Crawford's U21 side yesterday.
Here is the squad in full.
SQUAD | Kenny names 26-man squad for Latvia & France
Mikey Johnston receives first call-up whilst @NorwichCityFC duo Andrew Omobamidele & Adam Idah return to the squad for the first time since 2021
Roll on next week 🤩
22/03 | 🇮🇪🆚🇱🇻 | 7.45pm
27/03 | 🇮🇪🆚🇫🇷 | 7.45pm pic.twitter.com/jenfquoDjG— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) March 16, 2023
It is expected that Stephen Kenny will select a strong team for that friendly game against Latvia next Wednesday, with France set to come to Dublin for the first Euro 2024 qualifier the following Monday.
A big showing will be needed against the French in order too have any hopes of getting something out of the game. Here's hoping for two good performances.
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