Republic of Ireland Head Coach Colin Bell has named a 20-player squad ahead of their opening World Cup qualifying fixture on 19th September 19th, against Northern Ireland at Mourneview Park, Lurgan.
UCD Waves defender Claire Walsh and Maiden City midfielder Tyler Toland have received their first call-ups to the senior squad, whilst Stephanie Roche returns to the squad following a hamstring injury, says fai.ie
Peamount United striker Amber Barrett has also received her first international call-up after her impressive form for the Continental Tyres Women’s National League side.
Florida State Seminoles midfielder Megan Connolly misses out on the squad due to educational commitments with 9 players of the 20 selected from the WNL.
Colin Bell told fai.ie: “Firstly, I want to congratulate Claire Walsh, Amber Barrett and Tyler Toland on their first call-up to the senior squad.
“It is a huge moment in any player’s career and they should be immensely proud. Claire and Amber have been in great form for their respective clubs this season and rightly take their place in the squad, where I expect them to challenge for a starting spot.
“Tyler is an exceptional young talent who I was able to watch closely during the Women’s Under 17 European Championships in May. She is a player I believe who would benefit from being around the senior squad as we look to progress the young talent we have in Ireland.
“It’s great to Stephanie Roche back and fit for selection ahead of a crucial game. It’s imperative we start the campaign on a positive note and I’m really looking to getting the squad in on Wednesday, September 13th.”
Republic of Ireland WNT squad v Northern Ireland
Goalkeepers: Marie Hourihan (Manchester City), Amanda Budden (Cork City WFC), Amanda McQuillan (Shelbourne Ladies).
Defenders: Harriet Scott (Reading WFC), Megan Campbell (Manchester City), Sophie Perry (Brighton and Hove Albion), Diane Caldwell (SC Sand), Louise Quinn (Arsenal), Claire Walsh (UCD Waves).
Midfielders: Niamh Fahey (Bordeaux), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Stephanie Roche (Sunderland), Roma McLaughlin (Shelbourne Ladies), Tyler Toland (Maiden City).
Forwards: Katie McCabe (Glasgow City), Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies), Heather Payne (Peamount United), Amber Barrett (Peamount United), Aine O’Gorman (UCD Waves).
