Pair excluded from Ireland friendly matches; Derry City goalkeeper invited to join senior squad training.
John O’Shea faces the challenge of preparing for Ireland’s friendly matches against Belgium and Switzerland without the availability of defender Liam Scales and striker Troy Parrott. Scales sustained an injury prior to Celtic’s victory over St Johnstone, while Parrott has been absent from Dutch club Excelsior’s recent games, including their draw with RKC Waalwijk.
Rather than seeking replacements for the injured duo, the interim manager has opted to stick with the existing plans, which involve Under-21 players Joe Hodge and Andy Moran joining the senior squad after the European qualifier against San Marino on Friday.
Additionally, O’Shea has extended an invitation to Derry City goalkeeper Brian Maher to train alongside Gavin Bazunu, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Mark Travers. Maher, who boasts 12 caps for the Under-21s, will have the opportunity to join the senior squad in their preparations.
