Dundalk FC's Jamie McGrath gains first call-up to Ireland U21 squad for upcoming European qualifiers

Dundalk FC midfielder Jamie McGrath has been called into the Republic of Ireland U21 squad for the first time.

The Athboy-native will be a part of Noel King's 18-man outfit for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers away to Kosovo on Friday and against Germany in Tallaght on Tuesday week.

McGrath has been a regular in the Lilywhites line-up this season, playing either on the right wing or off the striker.

"I'd like to welcome Jamie McGrath into the U21 squad for the first time," said manager King at today's squad announcement.

"He's a player I've been watching for some time and has really impressed for Dundalk this season."

The former St. Patrick's Athletic player will now miss Dundalk's FAI Cup quarter-final against Limerick on Friday night.

Blackrock's Jimmy Dunne misses out, despite having featured for Hearts in the Scottish Premiership this term.

Squad

Goalkeepers: Kieran O'Hara (Manchester United, loan Macclesfield Town), Liam Bossin (Nottingham Forest)

Defenders: Danny Kane (Cork City FC, loan AFC Fylde), Ryan Sweeney (Stoke City, loan Mansfield United), Liam Kinsella (Walsall), Connor Shaughnessy (Leeds United), Ryan Delaney (Rochdale), Corey Whelan (Liverpool, loan Crewe Alexandra)

Midfielders: Jake Mulraney (Hearts), Jamie McGrath (Dundalk), Ryan Manning (QPR, loan Rotherham United), Harry Charsley (Everton), Josh Cullen (West Ham United, loan Charlton Athletic), Rory Hale (Derry City).

Forwards: Ronan Curtis (Portsmouth), Joe Quigley (Maidstone), Reece Grego-Cox (Crawley Tow), Ronan Hale (Birmingham City, loan Derry City)