Dundalk FC defenders Vinnie Leonard and Seán Spaight have both been called up to the Ireland Under-17 squad for two friendlies in Spain this week.
In November, Kilberry native Leonard started as Ireland qualified for the Elite Phase of the UEFA European Under-17 Championship in dramatic fashion, going through thanks to their disciplinary record, following a 3-0 win over Scotland in Larne.
The same month, Spaight was nominated for Ireland Under-15 Player of the Year at the 34th FAI International Awards after his outstanding performances at that level. From Blackrock, the left-footed defender turned 16 in January.
The pair were notified of their call-ups last month and the news became official on Monday, with both players having reported for duty that day.
The young Boys in Green face Finland on Wednesday and will play Hungary on Saturday, both games taking place in Oliva Nova near Valencia.
The games serve as preparation for the EURO Qualifiers in Poland next month. Colin O’Brien’s team have been drawn in Group A6 against hosts Poland, as well as Iceland and Belgium, with the team finishing top earning a place at the finals in Albania.
IRELAND UNDER-17 SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Darragh Brunton (St Patrick’s Athletic), George Moloney (Southampton), Ali Topcu (Shelbourne).
Defenders: Billy Canny (St Patrick’s Athletic), Aidan Gabbidon (Malmö FF), Vincent Leonard (Dundalk), Oisin McDonagh (Venezia FC), Seán Spaight (Dundalk).
Midfielders: Rory Finneran (Newcastle United), Billy Hayes (St Patrick’s Athletic), Oskar Skoubo Keely (Bohemians), Brody Lee (Shamrock Rovers), Ramon Martos (UC Almeria), Gavin McAteer (Finn Harps), Kian McMahon Brown (Burnley), Goodness Ogbonna (Shamrock Rovers), Niall Sullivan (St Patrick’s Athletic).
Forwards: Charles Akinrintayo (Shamrock Rovers), David Dunne (Cork City), Chris Idah (Klub Kildare), Billy O’Neill (Bray Wanderers), Cillian Tollett (Galway United).
International Friendly Fixtures (kick-offs are Irish time)
Wednesday 12th February | Ireland MU17 v Finland MU17, Oliva Nova, Spain, kick-off 11am.
Saturday 15th February | Hungary MU17 v Ireland MU17, Oliva Nova, Spain, kick-off 11am.
Details via FAI.ie.
