Harvey Vale, formerly the captain of England’s Under-19 team, has been named in the Republic of Ireland squad. He will be available for their World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic. The Queens Park Rangers midfielder, aged 22, previously represented England up to under-20 level.
Vale’s Allegiance Switch and Immediate Call-Up
Vale’s switch of allegiance was confirmed by Fifa last week, making him immediately available for selection. Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson revealed he spoke with Vale over a year ago. Vale expressed his desire to play for Ireland at that time.
Hallgrimsson stated Vale was injured then, so they have been monitoring his progress. His development at Queens Park Rangers has been growing, making it a perfect time to bring him into the squad. Hallgrimsson described Vale as a good player, a good person, a hard-working guy, and a creator of chances who scores goals.
Republic of Ireland’s Squad Additions and Returns
Veteran Preston wideman Robbie Brady has been recalled to the squad. He missed the qualifying campaign due to a calf injury. Alan Browne, who has impressed on loan for Middlesbrough from Sunderland, is included and could win his first cap since 2024, with Josh Cullen injured. Sammie Szmodics also returns after missing most of the qualifying campaign. Luton Town goalkeeper Josh Keeley receives his first call-up.
- Harvey Vale
- Robbie Brady
- Alan Browne
- Sammie Szmodics
World Cup Play-off Details
The Republic of Ireland face the Czech Republic in Prague on 26 March. They last qualified for the World Cup in 2002. A victory for Hallgrimsson’s side would set up a play-off final at home to either Denmark or North Macedonia on 31 March.
Defensive Reinforcements and Established Internationals
Uncapped Watford defender James Abankwah has been included to strengthen Hallgrimsson’s defensive options. Liam Scales is suspended for the Czech Republic game. Stoke City midfielder Bosun Lawal will also hope to earn his first senior cap after making 12 appearances for the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side.
The newer faces join a host of established internationals in Hallgrimsson’s squad. Seamus Coleman, 37, is included despite having only played 10 minutes for Everton since the Republic of Ireland’s games in November.
The Republic of Ireland’s squad includes goalkeepers Caoimhin Kelleher, Mark Travers, and Josh Keeley. Defenders named are Seamus Coleman, Jimmy Dunne, Nathan Collins, Dara O’Shea, Jake O’Brien, John Egan, James Abankwah, Liam Scales, Robbie Brady and Ryan Manning. Midfielders selected are Jayson Molumby, Bosun Lawal, Jack Taylor, Alan Browne, Jason Knight, Finn Azaz, and Harvey Vale. Forwards in the squad include Troy Parrott, Adam Idah, Johnny Kenny, and Chiedozie Ogbene, and Sammie Szmodics.
After dramatic wins over Portugal and Hungary, the Republic of Ireland sealed their place in the play-offs. Troy Parrott’s hat-trick in the 3-2 win over Hungary followed his double against Portugal.