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Republic of Ireland Squad Announcement for Nations League Play-off Against Bulgaria

Sinclair Armstrong has been re-added to the Republic of Ireland national team ahead of their crucial Nations League play-off against Bulgaria later this month.

In addition to Armstrong, head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has named uncapped Watford players Rocco Vata and James Abankwah, alongside QPR defender Jimmy Dunne, in a 23-player roster.

The Republic of Ireland will compete against Bulgaria to determine their position in League B, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Plovdiv on Thursday, March 20, and the return match set for Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Sunday, March 23.

Armstrong, who made his international debut during a match against the Netherlands in September 2023, had not featured in the squad since that game. The Bristol City forward has netted three goals in 28 matches so far this season but hasn’t found the back of the net since November.

Also making a return to the squad is goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, currently on loan at Standard Liege from Southampton. He is working to regain his top form after an Achilles injury that kept him off the pitch for ten months.

Adam Idah and Robbie Brady, who were absent from the previous squad due to injuries, have been included, along with Everton’s Jake O’Brien. However, there is no spot for O’Brien’s teammate Seamus Coleman, as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.

The updated squad sees the inclusion of Will Smallbone and Mark Sykes, the latter making his debut selection under Hallgrimsson, reflecting a shift in the team since the November international break.

Notably missing from the squad are Jayson Molumby, Mark McGuinness, Shane Duffy, Andy Moran, and Tom Cannon. Additionally, injuries have ruled out Ipswich’s Sammie Szmodics, along with wingers Festy Ebosele and Kasey McAteer.

Source
www.bbc.com