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Republic of Ireland Squad Shifts: Jaden Umeh's Debut for Grenada Friendly

BBC Sport Football •
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Jaden Umeh, the 18-year-old Benfica attacker, joins Republic of Ireland's squad for their first-time call-ups ahead of a May friendly against Grenada. The 18-year-old becomes the youngest player in the 21-man roster selected by head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, who emphasized Umeh's potential: "He's a high potential player... we'll have to wait and see." Umeh's release from Benfica ensures his eligibility, alongside nine uncapped players. Kasey McAteer, Tom Cannon, and Mark McGuinness return to bolster experience, while Killian Cahill (goalkeeper), Eiran Cashin, and Tayo Adaramola (defenders) add fresh faces. The squad blends Championship and League One talent, with Benfica, Ipswich Town, and Luton Town players represented. Grenada's friendly on May 16 at Murcia's Estadio Nueva Condomina tests Ireland's developmental strategy. Hallgrimsson aims to assess newcomers before adjusting lineups for later May matches against Qatar and Canada.