Will Fitzgerald and Karl O’Sullivan named in homegrown Irish U-21 squad

Ireland under-21 manager Stephen Kenny has named his first squad since taking the job two months ago. Limerick FC duo Karl O’Sullivan and Will Fitzgerald have been named in the squad ahead of a training camp to be held at the start of February.

The squad is made up of totally homegrown players, all of which are currently plying their trade in the Airtricity League and Irish Premiership. It is understood that Kenny wants to assess the quality of the players before the European qualification campaign starts. The former Dundalk manager is hopeful that a number of Airtricity League players can make an impact at national level with the 21s.

Upon unveiling the squad, Kenny stated, “To play for Ireland, even at under-21 level is a huge honour, and it can be a big step up for the players who have played previously for under-17s and 19s because by this stage the Swedish clubs say have players who are playing in their league with the likes of Malmo and Gothenburg and likewise, the Italians, will have a few who are playing in Serie A already so it is a big step up.”

Bohemians have four representatives while Shamrock Rovers boast three including Brandon Kavanagh. There are representatives from each of Waterford, Dundalk, Sligo, UCD and Linfield also. The news will give Limerick FC a big boost during testing times on Shannonside. Both players will be key members of Tommy Barrett’s squad in the first division this season.

The link between the new Irish u-21 boss and Fitzgerald relates back to matches between Kenny’s former club Dundalk and Limerick last season. Before leaving the Lilywhites, the former Derry manager was considering an approach for the winger while he also announced Fitzgerald as a growing prospect at his opening press conference as under-21 boss.

With the new season around the corner, the Shannonsiders have yet to announce a home venue to host games although they are expected to remain at the Markets Field.