Ex-England youth star Harvey Vale named in Republic of Ireland World Cup play-offs squad

Football
19 Mar 2026 • 9:56 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The Republic of Ireland has announced its 25-man squad for next week’s World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic.
  • Former England Under-19s captain Harvey Vale, a QPR midfielder, has been included after Fifa approved his switch of international allegiance to Ireland.
  • Striker Evan Ferguson is sidelined with an ankle injury, placing greater goalscoring responsibility on Troy Parrott, who secured their play-off spot with a hat-trick against Hungary.
  • Uncapped goalkeeper Josh Keeley joins as backup to Caoimhin Kelleher, while veteran David McGoldrick's return did not materialise, though Alan Browne and Robbie Brady are back.
  • Should Ireland defeat the Czech Republic, they will host either Denmark or North Macedonia in the play-off final.

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