Ireland has called up Harvey Vale, the former England U19 captain, for their World Cup playoff against the Czech Republic on March 26.
The 22-year-old midfielder, a Chelsea academy product who led England to the 2022 European Under-19 Championship title, recently secured Irish citizenship. FIFA approved his eligibility switch last week.
Vale joined Queens Park Rangers in February 2025 and revealed that Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson had been monitoring his return from injury.
"It's a big moment and I'm super happy that he's put his faith in me," Vale said.
A win over the Czech Republic would send Ireland to a March 31 home playoff against either Denmark or North Macedonia-potentially ending a 23-year World Cup drought dating back to 2002.
In related news, Hallgrimsson has signed a contract extension through Euro 2028.