Ireland boss Martin O’Neill says Blues striker Daryl Murphy "played very well indeed" during Saturday’s 0-0 home draw with Blackpool.
O’Neill, who was a guest of the club at that game, says Murphy has been recalled almost six years after his ninth and most recent cap as first-choice frontman Robbie Keane is staying in the US with the LA Galaxy.
"I went to Ipswich on Saturday. I thought Murphy played very well indeed,” O’Neill said. "I’ve spoken to Mick and he’s been happy with him during the course of time.
"If Robbie wasn’t going to be involved with us, let’s get [Murphy] in. Let’s get him involved. I’m sure it will be a boost for him.”
Murphy says the call came out of the blue: "It was a bit of a surprise, the call-up but a nice one,” he told the club site.
"I didn’t have an inkling that I would be included. I finished training and noticed there were a few missed calls on my phone and then someone told me I was in the squad.
"I knew Martin O’Neill was at the game against Blackpool on Saturday but I didn’t think any more about it, you just get on with the game.
"Obviously I’m delighted to be called up. It’s a great honour to play for your country and although I haven't played for Ireland for six years, I’ve always felt that if I was playing well enough then that opportunity might come along again.”