Coleman Left Out as Ogbene and Bazunu Return
“Ireland recall Ogbene, Bazunu with Coleman missing qualifiers” after head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson left the veteran defender out of the squad for the opening 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Republic of Ireland will begin their campaign against Hungary at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, September 6, before traveling to face Armenia three days later.
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Coleman’s Omission Raises Questions
Despite his leadership role, Seamus Coleman has not been named in the 23-man squad. The 36-year-old Everton captain has yet to feature in the Premier League this season, and Preston North End’s Robbie Brady is also sidelined with injury. Hallgrimsson acknowledged Coleman’s value but stressed that fitness concerns played a role in the decision.
Boost with Ogbene and Bazunu Back
On the positive side, Ipswich Town winger Chiedozie Ogbene has been recalled after recovering from the Achilles injury he suffered last October. Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu also makes his return, having missed the June international window due to injury. However, Bazunu’s teammate, midfielder Will Smallbone, is ruled out with a calf problem.
Fresh Faces and Young Talent
The squad also welcomes young talent. Killian Phillips of St Mirren, who earned his first senior cap in June against Senegal, keeps his place. Meanwhile, uncapped Stoke City player Bosun Lawal has been drafted in, showing Hallgrimsson’s willingness to bring in fresh options ahead of a tough campaign.
Qualification Group Outlook
Ireland have been drawn in a four-team qualifying group alongside Hungary, Armenia, and tournament favorites Portugal. Securing points against Hungary and Armenia will be crucial if the Boys in Green are to keep their hopes of qualification alive.
Full Republic of Ireland Squad
Goalkeepers: Caoimhín 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 (QPR), 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).
Attackers: 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).
