Evan Ferguson has been named in the Ireland squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with Portugal and Hungary.
Fergusson limped out of Roma’s game against Parma. However, it is a boost for Heimir Hallgrímsson, eventhough Ireland hold slim hopes of qualifying.
There is a first call-up for New York City FC defender Kevin O’Toole. The New Jersey-born defender, who qualifies for Ireland through his Dublin-born grandfather, recently received international clearance to represent Ireland.
Indeed, O’Toole’s sister Jillian currently plays for Treaty United in the SSE Airtricity Women's Premier Division.
There is further MLS involvement as Andrew Moran comes back into the squad for the first time since November 2024. Moran is currently on loan at Los Angles FC.
The squad includes both Jayson Molumby and Ryan Manning, who are suspended for the first match against Portugal at the Aviva Stadium. As a result, Hallgrímsson has named an extended 25-man squad for the window.
Ireland head into the final window with qualification for a play-off spot still in their hands.
The team will face Portugal at a sold-out Aviva Stadium on Thursday, November 13, before travelling to Budapest to take on Hungary on Sunday, November 16, as they aim to secure a place in the play-offs next March.
Republic of Ireland Squad – Portugal/Hungary
Goalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Brentford), Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Mark Travers (Everton)
Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Dara O'Shea (Ipswich Town), Jake O'Brien (Everton), Jimmy Dunne (Queens Park Rangers), Liam Scales (Celtic), John Egan (Hull City), Ryan Manning (Southampton)*, Kevin O'Toole (New York City)
Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion)*, Finn Azaz (Southampton), Conor Coventry (Charlton Athletic), Jack Taylor (Ipswich Town), Mark Sykes (Bristol City), Andrew Moran (LAFC)
Attackers: Evan Ferguson (AS Roma), Troy Parrott (AZ Alkmaar), Adam Idah (Swansea City FC), Mikey Johnston (West Bromwich Albion), Chiedozie Ogbene (Sheffield United), Festy Ebosele (İstanbul Başakşehir)
*Suspended for the first match against Portugal.
Fixtures – FIFA World Cup 26 Qualifying
13/11 - Republic of Ireland v Portugal, Aviva Stadium. 7.45pm
16/11 - Hungary v Republic of Ireland, Puskas Arena, 2pm (Irish Time)
