Left-back Shane O’Connor has been added to the Republic of Ireland U21 squad for the final two games of their 2011 UEFA European Championships qualifying campaign. The Irish youngsters face Switzerland on Friday and then Turkey on Tuesday, both away.
O’Connor, who was originally on standby for the matches, has previously won caps at U19, U18, U17 and U16 levels but is yet to play for the U21s.
The 20-year-old told the club site that he's delighted to receive the call: "I'd love to have the chance to progress and play for Ireland.
"I've played at the youth levels but being involved at U21 will give me a boost and hopefully I can move on from here.
"The call-up has come as a bonus really. I've just focused on playing for Ipswich and taking every chance I get at the club. I have looked at it as if the call from Ireland came, then great, I'd love to go, but it's been about me getting as many games under my belt as I can at the club."
Team-mate Conor Hourihane had already been named in the squad, which stands no chance of qualification for the finals.
The Corkman, who has also played in various roles in midfield recently, is one of seven Town players currently on international duty.
Photo: James Ager