John O’Shea, the interim manager of the Republic of Ireland national team, has called up several players from different clubs for the upcoming friendlies against Hungary and Portugal. Among those players is Tom Cannon, a 21-year-old striker from Leicester City who scored two goals in 13 Championship appearances this season. Cannon, despite being born in Liverpool, has represented Ireland at the Under-21 level.
The squad sees changes due to the absence of Gavin Bazunu due to injury, which opens up opportunities for goalkeepers Max O’Leary from Bristol City and Fleetwood Town’s Alex Harrington to join Caoimhin Kelleher and Mark Travers in the squad. Shane Duffy from Norwich City has been included in the squad despite facing a drink driving charge. However, Brentford’s Nathan Collins will miss the friendlies due to a knee injury, and Luton Town’s Chiedozie Ogbene is unavailable for personal reasons.
The Republic of Ireland team is set to face Hungary at the Aviva Stadium on June 4 before playing against Portugal in Aveiro seven days later. The defense lineup includes Seamus Coleman, Matt Doherty, Shane Duffy, and John O’Shea. The midfield will see Josh Cullen, Jamie McGrath, and Callum O’Dowda among others. The forward lineup includes players such as Adam Idah, Troy Parrott, Michael Obafemi alongside Tom Cannon.
