Republic of Ireland Head Coach Colin Bell has named Shelbourne’s Jessica Ziu in an 18-player squad for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland.
The 16-year old striker receives her first call-up to the squad following an impressive debut season for the Continental Tyres WNL side, as well as appearing for Ireland’s U-17 and U-16 sides.
Heather Payne and Harriet Scott return from injury but Shelbourne goalkeeper Amanda McQuillan misses out woith a knock.
Bell told fai.ie: “We’re looking to end the campaign on a high and it is vitally important we get a win in front of our supporters.
“We’ve had a fantastic campaign where we pushed two world-class teams in Norway and the Netherlands, and I’m delighted with how the team has developed during the course of qualifying.
“Whilst we can no longer qualify for the World Cup, every game at international level is important as we look to continue to progress ahead of the European Championships qualifying next year.
“Congratulations to Jessica Ziu on her first call-up to the senior team. She is someone who has really impressed me, having worked with her for the past 12 months. She has really progressed this season in the Women’s National League and in home-based training, and I believe she can really benefit from the week.”
Republic of Ireland squad
Goalkeepers: Marie Hourihan (Brighton & Hove Albion), Amanda Budden (Cork City)
Defenders: Harriet Scott (Birmingham City), Diane Caldwell (SC Sand), Louise Quinn (Arsenal), Heather Payne (Bristol City), Claire O’Riordan (MSV Duisburg)
Midfielders: Tyler Toland (Maiden City), Karen Duggan (Peamount United), Denise O’Sullivan (NC Courage), Niamh Fahey (Liverpool), Isibeal Atkinson (Shelbourne)
Forwards: Rianna Jarrett (Wexford), Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Leanne Kiernan (West Ham), Amber Barrett (Peamount United), Aine O’Gorman (Peamount United), Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne)
Kick off at Tallaght Stadium on Friday 31st August is 5.30pm.
