James McClean left out of Ireland squad, Caoimhín Kelleher injured
James McClean and Caoimhín Kelleher are notable absentees from Stephen Kenny's 24-player squad to face Greece and Gibraltar this month.
McClean announced his retirement from international football this morning, with the timing something of a surprise. But it now emerges he has been left out of the upcoming double header, which had been expected to comprise part of his swansong from the international game.
Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher misses out through injury with Max O'Leary coming into the squad to join his Bristol City teammate Mark Sykes who has earned a recall to the squad for the two qualifiers.
Sheffield United defender John Egan misses out through injury as well as Cardiff City winger Callum O'Dowda with Celtic defender Liam Scales recalled to the squad following his impressive form for the Scottish Champions.
Evan Ferguson, Mikey Johnston and Callum Robinson are all fit to return following injury.
Republic of Ireland Squad - Greece/Gibraltar
Goalkeepers: Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Mark Travers (Stoke City, on loan from AFC Bournemouth), Max O'Leary (Bristol City).
Defenders: Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Festy Ebosele (Udinese), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Shane Duffy (Norwich City), Dara O'Shea (Burnley), Andrew Omobamidele (Nottingham Forest), Liam Scales (Celtic), Ryan Manning (Southampton).
Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Alan Browne (Preston North End), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Jamie McGrath (Aberdeen), Mark Sykes (Bristol City).
Forwards: Evan Ferguson (Brighton and Hove Albion), Adam Idah (Norwich City), Aaron Connolly (Hull City), Chiedozie Ogbene (Luton Town), Callum Robinson (Cardiff City), Mikey
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