Collins returns, Bazunu out injured and Coleman set for 'hybrid role' in Ireland squad

by · TheJournal.ie

The 42

CAPTAIN NATHAN COLLINS returns to the Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming Uefa Nations League fixtures against Austria and Kosovo. 

Collins missed the last international window through injury, but is back in action with club side Brentford and named in Heimir Hallgrímsson’s 24-man squad. 

Harvey Vale also returns from injury ahead of the Austria game in Linz on Saturday 14 November, and the Kosovo clash at Aviva Stadium the following Tuesday, 17 November. 

Gavin Bazunu misses out with a quad injury. The goalkeeper withdrew from the squad for September’s contentious games against Israel. Mark Travers is again called up in his absence.

Speaking at his squad announcement press conference, Hallgrímsson confirmed that Seamus Coleman will undertake a “hybrid role” in this camp. The 38-year-old defender will train with the players, but carry out a leadership role with the coaches.

“Obviously tempted [to play Coleman]. How he did for us when he wasn’t playing for Everton makes us think he can always do a job for the national team.”

Owen Elding is not included as he joins the Ireland U21 squad for their Euro 2027 play-offs against Finland. 

Hallgrímsson’s squad is due to link up in Dublin on Monday before the decisive double-header opens with the trip to Linz.

“Two wins will most likely secure second place. That’s our goal,” the head coach added.

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He also confirmed that he had not spoken to Manchester United’s Irish-eligible teenager Shea Lacey, and that it was the role of others in the FAI to make contact. “Not from me. that would be the job for other people in the association.”

Republic of Ireland squad

Goalkeepers: Caoimhín Kelleher (Brentford), Max O’Leary (West Bromwich Albion), Mark Travers (Everton)

Defenders: Nathan Collins (Brentford), Dara O’Shea (Ipswich Town), John Egan (Hull City), Liam Kitching (Sheffield United), Jimmy Dunne (QPR), Jake O’Brien (Everton), James Abankwah (Watford), Ryan Manning (Southampton), Liam Scales (Celtic)

Midfielders: Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Conor Coventry (Charlton Athletic), Bosun Lawal (Stoke City), Harvey Vale (QPR), Finn Azaz (Southampton)

Forwards: Troy Parrott (Real Betis), Adam Idah (Swansea City), Tom Cannon (Sheffield United), Jack Moylan (Cardiff City), Chiedozie Ogbene (Lincoln City), Rocco Vata (Watford)

Uefa Nations League fixtures

Saturday, 14 November: Austria v Republic of Ireland, Raiffeisen Arena, Linz, 7.45pm (8.45pm local)

Tuesday, 17 November: Republic of Ireland v Kosovo, Aviva Stadium, 7.45pm.

- With reporting from David Sneyd 

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Written by Emma Duffy and originally published on The 42 whose award-winning team produces original content that you won’t find anywhere else: on GAA, League of Ireland, women’s sport and boxing, as well as our game-changing rugby coverage, all with an Irish eye. Subscribe here.