Ryan Manning receives late call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad
Ryan Manning has received a late call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad for their friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.
The Southampton defender has recovered from injury in time for the friendly double-header at the Aviva Stadium and will train with the squad on Friday having joined up with the group on Thursday.
The 27-year-old was initially left out of Interim Head Coach John O'Shea's 26-man squad but he is now deemed fit enough to play a part for the visit of the Belgians on Saturday followed by the Swiss next Tuesday.
But speaking about Manning's call-up on Friday morning, O'Shea said: "Ryan had a minor procedure at his club and it was watching brief to see how he was progressing.
"He joined up with us yesterday and goes into the squad. Everyone else is fine."
Republic of Ireland Squad
Goalkeepers: Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool), Mark Travers (AFC Bournemouth).
Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Andrew Omobamidele (Nottingham Forest), Dara O'Shea (Burnley), Jake O'Brien (Lyon), Robbie Brady (Preston North End), Festy Ebosele (Udinese), Ryan Manning (Southampton).
Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Jamie McGrath (Aberdeen), Callum O’Dowda (Cardiff City), Mark Sykes (Bristol City), Finn Azaz (Middlesbrough), Mikey Johnston (West Bromwich Albion).
Forwards: Evan Ferguson (Brighton and Hove Albion), Adam Idah (Celtic), Michael Obafemi (Millwall, on loan from Burnley), Sammie Szmodics (Blackburn Rovers), Chiedozie Ogbene (Luton Town).
Fixtures
Saturday March 23rd Ireland v Belgium, Aviva Stadium, 5pm
Tuesday March 26th Ireland v Switzerland, Aviva
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