Striker Billy Clarke netted a late consolation for the Republic of Ireland U21s as they lost 3-1 to Nigeria at the Intercontinental Cup in Malaysia earlier today. Clarke, winning his ninth U21 cap, tapped home from close range in stoppage time.

Nigeria are the favourites to win the tournament which they are using as part of their preparations for this summer's Olympics. Although Ireland are fielding an U21 team, the rest of the sides in the competition are the same U23 level as the Olympic football tournament.

Ireland, who beat Malaysia 3-1 in their opening game, complete their Intercontinental Cup campaign with a game against Iraq on Tuesday.

Earlier in the week, Clarke was amongst five players transfer-listed by boss Jim Magilton.

Republic of Ireland U21s: Paul Skinner – Celtic, Simon Madden – Leeds United, Darren Dennehy - Everton, Shane Lowry - Aston Villa, David Elebert – Hamilton Academicals, James Ryan – Shrewsbury Town, Stephen Maher - Yeovil Town (Michael Collins – Huddersfield Town 58), Mark Salmon – Wolverhampton Wanderers (Keith Treacy - Blackburn Rovers 85), Karl Moore - Manchester City (Stephen Ward - Wolverhampton Wanderers 72), Alan Judge - Blackburn Rovers, Billy Clarke - Ipswich Town. Unused: Shane Redmond - Nottingham Forest, Michael Spillane - Norwich City, Eddie Nolan - Blackburn Rovers, James Berrett – Huddersfield Town.

Photo: Action Images

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