In a strategic move to strengthen their squad, the Republic of Ireland has called up Andrew Moran from Stoke and Ryan Manning from Southampton for the upcoming UEFA Nations League play-off against Bulgaria. This decision comes after Will Smallbone and Callum O'Dowda were ruled out due to injuries.

Squad Adjustments

A statement from the Republic of Ireland confirmed that Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone and Cardiff's Callum O'Dowda have withdrawn from the squad due to injuries. This has paved the way for Moran and Manning to join the team.

Upcoming Matches

Heimir Hallgrimsson's Ireland side is set to face Bulgaria in the first leg in Plovdiv on Thursday, followed by the return game in Dublin on Sunday. The Irish team is determined to maintain their position in League B as they take on the League C3 runners-up.

New Additions

Both Moran and Manning reported for duty on Sunday and will begin training with the squad on Monday. Their inclusion is expected to bring fresh energy and versatility to the team.

Full Squad List

Goalkeepers:

• Kelleher (Liverpool)
• Travers (Middlesbrough, on loan from Bournemouth)
• Bazunu (Standard Liege, on loan from Southampton)

Defenders:

• O'Brien (Everton)
• Doherty (Wolves)
• Collins (Brentford)
• O'Shea (Ipswich)
• Dunne (QPR)
• Abankwah (Watford, on loan from Udinese)
• Brady (Preston)
• Manning (Southampton)

Midfielders:

• Cullen (Burnley)
• Knight (Bristol City)
• Taylor (Ipswich Town)
• Sykes (Bristol City)
• Azaz (Middlesbrough)
• Moran (Stoke, on loan from Brighton)

Forwards:

• Ferguson (West Ham United, on loan from Brighton)
• Idah (Celtic)
• Parrott (AZ Alkmaar)
• Armstrong (Bristol City)
• Johnston (West Brom)
• Vata (Watford)

Related Topics

• Republic of Ireland Men's Football Team
• Northern Ireland Sport
• Football