Forward Jaden Umeh has been withdrawn from the Republic of Ireland Men’s National Team squad for the upcoming international friendly against Grenada.

The 18-year-old has been retained by his club, Benfica, as their Under-19 side continues to compete for a qualification spot in next season's UEFA Youth League. Following results in the Portuguese league this weekend, Benfica have yet to secure their position, necessitating Umeh’s presence for their final fixtures.

Ireland Head Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson has opted not to call up a replacement to the squad currently based in Murcia, Spain. 

Speaking on the withdrawal, Ireland Head Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson said: "Benfica are still fighting in their Under-19s to be in the UEFA Youth League. The plan was for them to have secured safety by now, but unfortunately, results this weekend didn’t go their way, so Jaden still has one more game to play.

"We knew beforehand that this was a possibility, even if it was unlikely. It is unlucky for him that the results went that way, as we were looking forward to working with him, but we understand the club's position and will have to wait for a future window to bring him into the environment."

The Ireland squad continued their preparations in Murcia today. As part of the intensive training week, the group will play a behind-closed-doors training match against Real Murcia 'B' tomorrow, Tuesday, May 12.

Ireland will conclude the training camp against Grenada on Saturday, May 16, at the Estadio Nueva Condomina, with kick-off at 5:00 PM (6:00 PM local time).

Republic of Ireland Squad - Grenada International Friendly

Goalkeepers: Max O'Leary (West Bromwich Albion), Josh Keeley (Luton Town), Killian Cahill (Leyton Orient)

Defenders: Dara O'Shea (Ipswich Town), Eiran Cashin (Blackburn Rovers - loan), James Abankwah (Watford), Mark McGuinness (Sheffield United), Tayo Adaramola (Sheffield Wednesday - loan).

Midfielders: Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Conor Coventry (Charlton Athletic), Andrew Moran (Preston North End), Rory Finneran (Newcastle United). 

Forwards: Adam Idah (Swansea City), Tom Cannon (Sheffield United), Chiedozie Ogbene (Sheffield United - loan), Millenic Alli (Portsmouth), Jack Moylan (Lincoln City), Aidomo Emakhu (Oxford United).

Fixtures - International Friendly

16/05 – Ireland v Grenada, Estadio Nueva Condomina, 5:00 PM (6:00 PM Local)