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Former England Under-19 captain Harvey Vale has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for next week’s World Cup semi-final against the Czech Republic.
The 22-year-old QPR midfielder, who started his career at Chelsea, has represented England up to Under-20 level and captained their triumph at the European Under-19 Championship in 2022.
Vale, who holds an Irish passport, was handed an immediate recall after FIFA confirmed his switch of allegiance last week.
The President of the Republic of Ireland, Heimir Hallgrimsson, said: “I spoke to him more than a year ago.”
“He expressed his desire to play for Ireland. He was injured then so we have been monitoring him. His development at Queen’s Park has been improving and it is the perfect time to bring him into the team.”
“A good player, a good person, a hard-working guy, a chance maker and a goalscorer, so I’m looking forward to working with Harvey.”
Hallgrimsson also recalled veteran Preston player Robbie Brady after he missed the qualifiers due to a calf injury.
With Josh Cullen injured, midfielder Alan Brown – who impressed on loan to Middlesbrough from Sunderland – has been included and could make his first international appearance since 2024.
Sammie Szmodics also returns while Luton Town goalkeeper Josh Keeley has a first call-up.
After salvaging their qualifying campaign with dramatic victories over Portugal and Hungary, the Republic of Ireland – which last qualified for the World Cup in 2002 – will face the Czech Republic in Prague on March 26.
A win for Hallgrimsson’s side will set up a final home play-off match against Denmark or North Macedonia on March 31.
More to follow.
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