Benfica pull Irish wonderkid out of Ireland senior squad as Hallgrimsson makes statement

The Cork native was originally named in the latest Irish squad by Heimir Hallgrimsson for the upcoming training camp in Murcia.

Umeh announced himself on the international stage when he represented Ireland during the U-17 World cup and recently made his debut for the U21 side in March.

Given the camp doesn't fall under the official FIFA international break window, clubs are allowed to recall players and Benfica have decided to do so with Umeh returning for their important game against FC Famalicao as they have yet to clinch their spot in next year's Uefa League.

Umeh has played primarily for the U19's this year and has caught the attention of first team manager Jose Mourinho. (You can see Umeh's goal against Sporting Lisbon below).

Hallgrimsson said: "Benfica are still fighting in their Under-19s to be in the UEFA Youth League. The plan was for them to have secured that by now, but unfortunately, results this weekend didn't go their way, so Jaden still has one more game to play."

"It is unlucky for him that the results went that way, as we were looking forward to working with him, but we understand the club's position and will have to wait for a future window to bring him into the environment."

Hallgrimsson has announced Ireland will not call up a player to replace Umeh for the friendly due to take place this Saturday. (You can listen to the rest of Hallgrimsson's interview below)