Former England U19 captain Harvey Vale has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for next week’s World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic.
The 22-year-old Queens Park Rangers midfielder, who began his career at Chelsea, previously played for England up to U20 level and captained their U19 European Championship win in 2022. Vale switched his international allegiance to Ireland last week after Fifa approval.
Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson, who recently extended his contract until 2028, said Vale is a hard-working, creative midfielder and the timing is perfect to bring him into the squad.
The 25-man squad also features veteran Robbie Brady, and includes Alan Browne, Sammie Szmodics, and uncapped goalkeeper Josh Keeley.
Ireland, who last reached the World Cup in 2002, face the Czech Republic in Prague on 26 March. A win would set up a home play-off final against Denmark or North Macedonia on 31 March.
