Former England U19 captain Vale in Republic of Ireland squad

Former England Under-19 captain Harvey Vale has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for next week's World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic.

The 22-year-old Queens Park Rangers midfielder, who started his senior career at Chelsea, represented England up to under-20 level and captained their European Under-19 Championship triumph in 2022.

Vale, who holds an Irish passport, earns an immediate call-up after his allegiance switch was confirmed by Fifa last week.

"I talked to him over a year ago," said Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson.

"He expressed a desire to play for Ireland. He was injured then so we have been watching him. His development at Queens Park has been growing and it's a perfect time to bring him into the squad.

"Good player, good person, hard-working guy, creator of chances and scoring goals, so I'm looking forward to working with Harvey."

Hallgrimsson has also recalled veteran Preston wideman Robbie Brady after he missed the qualifying campaign with a calf injury.

With Josh Cullen injured, midfielder Alan Browne - who has impressed on loan for Middlesbrough from Sunderland - is included and could win his first cap since 2024.

Sammie Szmodics also returns while there is a first call-up for Luton Town goalkeeper Josh Keeley.

Having salvaged their qualifying campaign with dramatic wins over Portugal and Hungary, the Republic of Ireland - who last qualified for the World Cup in 2002 - face the Czech Republic in Prague on 26 March.

Victory for Hallgrimsson's side would set up a play-off final at home to Denmark or North Macedonia on 31 March.

More to follow.