Bohemians goalkeeper James Talbot called up to Ireland squad for Euro 2020 qualifiers

Bohemians goalkeeper James Talbot has been added to the Republic of Ireland squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Denmark and Gibraltar following Mark Travers’ withdrawal.

Talbot – who has 11 clean sheets in 18 games since joining the Gypsies in the off-season – follows the man he replaced at Bohs, Shane Supple, in receiving international recognition.

The Dubliner will be part of the matchday squad for the games against Denmark (June 7th) and Gibraltar (June 10th) but will be released for Bohs’ league game against Finn Harps on May 31st.

Third-place Bohs have the third-best defensive record in the league with 12 conceded, behind only Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers, and Talbot has been a major component.

22-year-old Talbot played schoolboy football with Home Farm in Dublin before joining Sunderland in 2013, returning last summer before signing for Bohs in November.

The withdrawal of Bournemouth keeper Travers – who spent time with Lucan United and Shamrock Rovers at underage level – opened up a space for a third keeper in the squad.

Darren Randolph is likely to start both games against Denmark and Gibraltar but second-choice keeper Sean McDermott is also untested at this level.

"We've had a couple of injuries to goalkeepers and Caoimhin Kelleher is going to the Toulon Tournament with the Under-21s, so we've brought in James Talbot due to his recent form with Bohemians," said manager Mick McCarthy.

"Our goalkeeping coach, Alan Kelly, had been keeping an eye on the lad and he has done very well. We are happy to release him to play for his club. I've spoken to Keith Long and he's been very supportive. And he's delighted for James.

"We understand it's an important time for Bohemians but equally this is a great opportunity for James to come in with us." 



Bristol City stopper Max O’Leary, who qualifies through his Kerry-born grandfather, has also been added to the training squad but won’t take part in the games.

O’Leary has begun the process of confirming his eligibility with FIFA but has yet to receive clearance to play competitively.