Republic of Ireland internationals Troy Parrott, Chiedozie Ogbene and Caoimhín Kelleher took time out from their international preparations on Tuesday afternoon to deliver early Christmas presents and bring festive cheer to young patients at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) at Temple Street.

With the Men’s Senior National Team currently in Dublin preparing for a decisive UEFA Nations League double-header, facing Austria in Linz this Saturday before hosting Kosovo at the Aviva Stadium next Tuesday, the three players travelled into inner-city Dublin directly after training this morning.

As this window marks the squad’s final camp before Christmas, the players made the special trip to spend quality time with children facing health challenges, meet their families, and recognise the extraordinary dedication of the hospital’s doctors, nurses and frontline staff.

Each child visited across the wards received an official Ireland jersey signed by the three players. The trio also spent time chatting with the children, signing autographs and posing for photographs with patients and hospital personnel.

Speaking about the visit, Dublin-native Troy Parrott said: "It’s always a privilege to come into Temple Street and spend time with these amazing kids. Being from Dublin, I know just how much this hospital means to families right across the country. Seeing the smiles on their faces today puts everything into perspective and if we brought a little bit of happiness to their day, that means the world to us."

Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher said: "It’s a really humbling experience for all of us. As players, we get so focused on big matches and training, but coming here reminds you of what’s truly important. The bravery of these children and their families is unbelievable and it was an absolute pleasure to come in, hand out a few gifts and spend some time with them."

Forward Chiedozie Ogbene added: "It was truly inspiring to meet the children today and see the incredible energy and resilience they have. We also wanted to show our appreciation for the doctors, nurses, and staff here at Temple Street, the work and the care they put in every single day is remarkable. We’re grateful to have had the opportunity to visit and spread some early Christmas cheer."