Former England Under-19s captain Harvey Vale has been named in the Republic of Ireland squad for their World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic. The QPR midfielder, who led England to victory in the 2022 Under-19 European Championship, recently had his request to switch international allegiance approved by Fifa.
The ex-Chelsea youngster now goes straight into Heimir Hallgrímsson’s 25-man selection for next Thursday’s clash in Prague. With striker Evan Ferguson sidelined for the rest of the season due to an ankle injury sustained on loan at Roma, much of the goalscoring responsibility will fall to Troy Parrott, whose hat-trick against Hungary in November secured the play-off spot.
Uncapped goalkeeper Josh Keeley also features as back-up to Caoimhin Kelleher, with Gavin Bazunu unavailable. Speculation that veteran striker David McGoldrick might reverse his retirement proved unfounded, though Alan Browne and Robbie Brady both return to the squad.
If the Republic of Ireland get past the Czech Republic in their semi-final, they will host either Denmark or North Macedonia in the play-off final for a spot in this summer’s World Cup. Wales, who are also set to play in next week’s play-offs, were linked with former England youth star Ashley Phillips, but the Tottenham defender was not included in Craig Bellamy’s squad.
Wales are due to play Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off semi-finals, with a victory setting up a final against either Italy or Northern Ireland. Bellamy’s side are aiming to qualify for a second straight World Cup after appearing in Qatar four years ago.
