Republic of Ireland Under-23 manager Paul Doolin today (Thursday, May 6th) named a 20-man squad to face England in their opening International Challenge Trophy match at Waterford's RSC on May 26th.

It was also confirmed today that the Republic of Ireland Under-23 squad will face Giovanni Trapattoni's Republic of Ireland training camp squad in a training match on May 18th. The training match, which will not be open to members of the public, will give both Doolin and Trapattoni a chance to assess their players ahead of their respective matches the following week.

The Republic of Ireland Under-23 squad brings together the very best young talent in the Airtricity League.

Paul Doolin said: "This is a really talented squad of players and it shows just how many excellent young players are currently playing in the Airtricity League. Although the players are young, there is a great deal of experience in the squad. Most of the players have played first team Airtricity League football for several seasons and quite a few already have experience of international football with various underage squads.

"To get the opportunity to represent your country is a huge honour for any player and I'm sure they will all be relishing the chance to pull on the green shirt against England at the RSC on May 26th. It will be a special night and I am really looking forward to it.

"Prior to the England game, we will have the opportunity to have a look at the players when they face Giovanni Trapattoni's training camp squad. This is a great opportunity to give the players a chance to play together against good opposition ahead of the England match. The opportunity to come up against senior international players is also something that the players will no doubt look forward to."

International Challenge Trophy - Wednesday, May 26th
Republic of Ireland v England
RSC 7.30pm

Tickets are priced €13 for adults and €4 for Under-16s and are available through Ticketmaster or Alfie Hale's Sportshop, 40-42 Arundel Square, Waterford.