Confirmation of the news the whole of Aberdeen knew last night.
Congratulations to @17AdamRooney who has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers! #StandFree pic.twitter.com/BY6GbckapG
— Aberdeen FC (@AberdeenFC) October 2, 2016
The Republic of Ireland met up in Abbotstown on Monday ahead of the World Cup qualifier double-header against Georgia and Moldova, with Martin O’Neill confirming a couple of uncapped additions to the original squad, named last month.
Adam Rooney and Ian Lawlor called into ROI squad and among 25 training in Abbotstown. Daryl Murphy (ankle) also out of both WC qualifiers.
— Philip Quinn (@Quinner61) October 3, 2016
Aberdeen goal machine Rooney (six this season) has been called up by Martin O’Neill in place of the injured striker Daryl Murphy, while there is an interesting change at the other end of the pitch.
Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Keiren Westwood has withdrawn, to be replaced by promising Manchester City netminder Ian Lawlor.
Delighted to be called into @FAIreland senior squad! ⚽️🍀
— Ian Lawlor (@Ianlawlor) October 3, 2016
After a few months spent on loan at Barnet and Bury, the Dubliner is back at the Etihad, hopefully learning the role of sweeper-keeper-libero from Claudio Bravo and preparing for his Premier League debut.
Following the second retirement of Given, Lawlor now gets the chance to experience international football this week as O’Neill prepares his team for Thursday’s home match with Georgia before flying out for Sunday’s trip to Moldova.
The GAA Hour pays tribute to the unbeatable Dubs and ask where did it all go wrong for Mayo in the All-Ireland final replay. Listen below or subscribe on iTunes.
