Ireland under-21 boss Jim Crawford names new-look under-21 squad for Welsh friendly

Dawson Devoy of Bohemians has been called up to Jim Crawford's under-21 squad Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)

Republic of Ireland under-21 boss Jim Crawford has called up a new-look squad ahead of the upcoming friendly away to Wales.

Crawford has called up three players from the League of Ireland – with two coming from Bohemians in Dawson Devoy and Andy Lyons.

Bray Wanderers shot-stopper Brian Maher is the other League of Ireland player that has been called up by Crawford.

Meanwhile, the under-21s boss has also called up Premier League duo Ademipo Odubeko and Will Ferry.

“This is an exciting group and myself and the coaching staff are really looking forward to working with them,” Crawford said after calling his new squad.
 
“It’s an opportunity for those coming into the Under-21s for the first time to see what it means to compete at this level and the standards that are required.
 
“I’ve no doubt the players who have already been in with us will welcome the new faces. Many would have played together for Ireland at younger age groups, and this helps their transition to Under-21s international football.”

The Boys in Green will face Wales this month before a potential summer tournament is due to take place in June.

Crawford added: “I’m expecting the Wales game to be a tough test against a talented side. 

“It’s our aim to qualify for the European Championships. We want to qualify in style by playing an attractive brand of football that we can all be proud of.

“Next week we go to work to achieve that.”

Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad



Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (Bray Wanderers), Dan Rose (Schalke 04)

Defenders: Shane Flynn (Leicester City), Andy Lyons (Bohemians), Mark McGuinness (Ipswich Town on loan from Arsenal), Oisin McEntee (Newcastle United), Andrew Omobamidele (Norwich City), Lee O’Connor (Tranmere Rovers on loan from Celtic), Mason O’Malley (Scunthorpe United), Lewis Richards (Wolves).

Midfielders: Conor Coventry (West Ham United), Conor Grant (Rochdale), Dawson Devoy (Bohemians), Alex Gilbert (Brentford), Conor Noss (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Louis Watson (Derby County).

Forwards: Jonathan Afolabi (Dundee on loan from Celtic), Will Ferry (Southampton), Gavin Kilkenny (Bournemouth), Joshua ‘JJ’ Kayode (Carlisle United on loan from Rotherham United) Ademipo Odubeko (West Ham United), Tyreik Wright (Walsall on loan from Aston Villa).