A new generation of Ireland internationals will begin their journey when they head to Croatia for a UEFA Development Tournament this week.

Ireland Boys Under-15s’ first international will see them take on Slovenia this Wednesday, followed by a game against the hosts Croatia on Friday before ending their tournament against Lithuania on Monday, September 23.

Head Coach Jason Donohue has selected a squad of 20 with 19 coming from the EA SPORTS LOI Academy.

Speaking about his squad selection, Jason Donohue said: “It will be an exciting time for the boys in the squad but they’re here on merit and deserve the opportunity to represent their country. It was a difficult squad to pick as we have a lot of talented players at this age group so the players know there’s a lot of competition for places.

“The opposition they will face will give them a true test of what it means to be an Irish international. Slovenia, Croatia and Lithuania will be a challenge for them all and it’s about taking in information for three games in six days, which is key for their development, and putting on the performances we know this group is capable of.”  

Republic of Ireland Boys Under-15s

Goalkeepers: Sebastian Clarke (St. Patrick’s Athletic), Charlie McGarvey (Sligo Rovers)

Defenders: Maxim Afonin (Shamrock Rovers), Rian Ennis (Shamrock Rovers), Kimson Kibaga (St.Patrick’s Athletic), Luke Malone Byrne (St. Patrick’s Athletic), Jayden Marshall (Shelbourne), Charlie Nolan (Shamrock Rovers), Daniel O’Halloran (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

Midfielders: Aydin Aliyev (SpVgg Greuther Furth), Ciaran Daly (Shamrock Rovers), Blake Lynch (St. Patrick’s Athletic), Finn Reilly (St. Patrick’s Athletic), Josh O’Dwyer (Shamrock Rovers), Bobby Zeller (Shamrock Rovers)

Forwards: Jonathan Echefu (Galway United), Ethan Kelly (St. Patrick’s Athletic), Liam Kelly (Derry City),  Ashley Okeowo (Bohemians), Archie Quinn (Shamrock Rovers)

Ireland Boys Under-15s UEFA Development Tournament fixtures (all kick-offs are Irish time)

Wednesday, September 18 | Slovenia v Ireland, Zagreb, Croatia, KO 10am
Friday, September 20 | Croatia v Ireland, Zagreb, Croatia, KO 3.30pm
Monday, September 23 | Ireland v Lithuania, Zagreb, Croatia, KO 3.30pm