Seamus Coleman Omitted from Republic of Ireland Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
Republic of Ireland captain Seamus Coleman misses out on Heimir Hallgrimsson's 23-man squad for the opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia.
Seamus Coleman has been omitted from the Republic of Ireland squad for the opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia.
The 36-year-old defender, sidelined since June by injury, has recently returned to fitness but remained unused in Everton's early Premier League fixtures. Coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has opted not to recall his long-time captain.
In positive news for Ipswich Town, Chiedozie Ogbene returns after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury that kept him out since October 2024. He joins an eight-strong forward line featuring club teammates Sammie Szmodics and Kasey McAteer, as well as Evan Ferguson, who debuted in Serie A for Roma in their recent win over Bologna.
Injuries rule out Preston North End's Robbie Brady and Southampton's Will Smallbone, while Stoke City newcomer Bosun Lawal retains his place after earning his first call-up earlier this summer.
Republic of Ireland squad
Goalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Brentford), Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Mark Travers (Everton).
Defenders: Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Jake O'Brien (Everton), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Dara O'Shea (Ipswich Town), Jimmy Dunne (Queens Park Rangers), Bosun Lawal (Stoke City), Liam Scales (Celtic), Ryan Manning (Southampton).
Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Jack Taylor (Ipswich Town), Killian Phillips (St. Mirren).
Forwards: Evan Ferguson (AS Roma), Troy Parrott (AZ Alkmaar), Adam Idah (Celtic), Finn Azaz (Middlesbrough), Sammie Szmodics (Ipswich Town), Chiedozie Ogbene (Ipswich Town), Kasey McAteer (Ipswich Town), Mikey Johnston (West Bromwich Albion).
The Republic of Ireland kick off their qualifiers at home against Hungary on 6 September, followed by a trip to Armenia three days later. Portugal complete the group.
Coach Hallgrimsson surprises by omitting long-serving captain Coleman, while fresh talent like Ogbene and Lawal earn selection as Ireland seek a strong start to their 2026 World Cup campaign.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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