Heimir Hallgrímsson is set to name the next Ireland football squad on Thursday, with a busy international window ahead. Alongside familiar faces, several emerging players could give the Republic of Ireland squad a fresh look as the team prepares for Nations League matches against Kosovo, Israel and Austria.
The results will matter beyond the competition itself. A strong campaign could improve Ireland’s seeding position ahead of Euro 2028 qualification, while the next few weeks may also help Hallgrímsson identify players ready to take on bigger international responsibilities.
Seven players to watch in the Ireland football squad
Owen Elding
Owen Elding is now eligible for selection after completing the process required to represent Ireland. The Hibernian player trained with the senior group during the summer, despite being unavailable for matches at the time, and appears to have made a positive impression on Hallgrímsson.
Although an Ireland under-21 pathway had initially looked the most likely route, a senior call-up would underline how highly the manager rates his potential. Elding could be one of the most intriguing additions to the squad.
Seamus Coleman
Seamus Coleman’s possible inclusion would carry particular significance. The long-serving defender remains without a club, and a place in the squad could indicate that he plans to continue his playing career rather than retire from international football.
The Donegal native has acknowledged that his future remains undecided. His presence would provide experience and leadership, while also offering an important clue about his next move.
Rory Finneran
Ireland’s midfield options have been tested by injuries. Josh Cullen and Jack Taylor are unavailable, while Will Smallbone is still building fitness after remaining a free agent. That situation could open the door for Rory Finneran.
The 18-year-old has already made his senior international debut and is now gaining valuable experience with Notts County on loan from Newcastle United. A further call-up would give him an opportunity to develop within the senior environment and potentially establish himself earlier than expected.
Jacob Devaney
Jacob Devaney is another young player whose progress could attract attention. The Hibernian loanee, who is contracted to Manchester United, is still at an early stage of his career but has earned a strong reputation at club level.
He has not yet featured in the senior Ireland setup, but the current window could be a useful moment to introduce him. Early integration may help Ireland retain a promising player as competition for international representation grows.
Jack Moylan
Jack Moylan has already experienced an eventful start to his international career. He scored a hat-trick on his Ireland debut against Grenada, before being sent off in his second appearance against Qatar.
That disciplinary setback has not erased the promise he showed. His selection would suggest that the coaching staff remain willing to give the Cardiff City attacker further opportunities as Ireland builds towards the Euro 2028 cycle.
Trent Kone-Doherty
Ireland have not always had a deep supply of natural wingers, which makes Trent Kone-Doherty an especially appealing prospect. The Derry attacker’s move to Molde has begun to pay off, with nine goals in his last six appearances, including a hat-trick in his latest league game.
A call-up could arrive quickly given his form, although the timing of this window may work against him. Even so, his progress is likely to remain a major talking point in Ireland soccer news.
James Abankwah
James Abankwah is already familiar to the international setup, having won four caps since the start of the year. With Nathan Collins potentially unavailable, the Udinese defender could be given a larger role.
Abankwah has started all four of Udinese’s league matches this season and scored against Inter. His ability to operate in central defence or at wing-back gives Hallgrímsson useful tactical flexibility and could lead to a reshaped back line.
Why this Ireland squad selection matters
The upcoming announcement is about more than filling vacancies. Injuries, club form and the development of younger players are forcing Ireland to assess the depth of the squad before a demanding run of fixtures.
- Midfield absences may create opportunities for emerging players.
- Club form could influence attacking selections.
- Experienced figures such as Coleman could provide balance.
- Young prospects may be introduced with Euro 2028 in mind.
For supporters following Ireland football fixtures, the squad announcement should offer an early indication of Hallgrímsson’s priorities and the shape of the team he wants to build.
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What happens next for Ireland?
Hallgrímsson’s squad announcement will reveal which players have done enough to force their way into the picture. The Nations League meetings with Kosovo, Israel and Austria will then provide the clearest test of whether Ireland’s emerging options are ready for senior international football.
Article/Image Courtesy: Balls.ie