Home based U21 squad announced by King

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad has been announced by Noel King ahead of their practice match against Leinster and Munster; a game which is part of the latter's preparation for the forthcoming UEFA Regions Cup.

The squad consists entirely of home-based players and King maintains this test could prove fruitful for both sides.

“The Leinster & Munster side are obviously preparing for their tournament and are a very strong team so this will be an excellent opportunity for our players to show our management team what they can do,” said King.

“We have played games like this in the past to good effect and quite a few players have come through those games and furthered their careers including Enda Stevens, Karl Sheppard, Paddy Madden and Paul Corry.

“If we can produce as many players for the U21 squad from this group I will be extremely pleased. There is no better way to judge players then when you are working with them directly.

“The opportunities are always there for Airtricity League players to push their way into the U21 squad and I’m looking forward to this game.”

Kick-off for the game is at 1.30pm on Saturday, February 23 and will take place at the AUL Complex, Clonshaugh.

The complete squad list for the practice game is as below:

Greg Murray (Bohemian FC)

Niall Burdon (Shelbourne FC)

Michael Barker (Bohemian FC)

Roberto Lopes (Bohemian FC)

Luke Byrne (Bohemian FC)

Chris Lyons (Bohemian FC)

Hugh Douglas (UCD AFC)

Barry McCabe (UCD AFC)

Robbie Benson (UCD AFC)

Ismahil Akinade (Bray Wanderers FC)

Kevin Knight (Bray Wanderers FC)

Eoghan Osborne (Dundalk FC)

Daniel Purdy (Longford Town FC)

Stephen McDonnell (Dundalk FC)

Chris Forrester (St Patrick’s Athletic FC)

Conor Murphy (St Patrick’s Athletic FC)

Barry McNamee (Derry City FC)