Liverpool’s Kelleher included in Ireland’s team ahead of Malta meet

Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is one of the players named in the Republic of Ireland’s squad ahead of their international friendly against Malta.

Kelleher, 23, was between the sticks for Liverpool as they advanced into the next round of the EFL Cup at the expense of League One side Derby County following a penalty shoot-out.

He has already eight caps for Ireland including four in their recent UEFA Nations League campaign during which they picked up seven points and finished third in Group B1.

Ireland’s coach Stephen Kenny has called up several other players who are based in England including Southampton’s Gavin Bazunu, Mark Travers of Bournemouth, Everton’s Seamus Coleman, Matt Doherty of Tottenham Hotspur and Jeff Hendrick, who plays at Reading.

The Irish side will be hosting Norway before taking on Malta, on November 20 at the National Stadium, in Ta’ Qali.

Ireland have been drawn in a tough group in the Euro 2024 qualifications as they were pitted with Netherlands, current world champions France, Greece and Gibraltar.

SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool), Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Mark Travers (AFC Bournemouth).

Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Matt Doherty (Tottenham Hotspur), Nathan Collins (Wolverhampton Wanderers), John Egan (Sheffield United), Dara O’Shea (West Bromwich Albion), Darragh Lenihan (Middlesbrough), Liam Scales (Aberdeen), James McClean (Wigan Athletic), Robbie Brady (Preston North End).

Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jeff Hendrick (Reading), Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Alan Browne (Preston North End), Will Smallbone (Stoke City), Jamie McGrath (Dundee United).

Forwards: Michael Obafemi (Swansea City), Callum Robinson (Cardiff City), Scott Hogan (Birmingham City), Chiedozie Ogbene (Rotherham United), Will Keane (Wigan Athletic), Evan Ferguson (Brighton and Hove Albion), Callum O’Dowda (Cardiff City).