John Egan's hopes of a starting role in the big qualifier against Switzerland have been dashed.
The Cork man is flying at Sheffield United and relishing the Premier League season ahead having started with a draw at Bournemouth last weekend.
Ireland boss Mick McCarthy was at that game and was impressed with Egan – but it won’t be enough to force his way into the team.
Derby County’s Richard Keogh is McCarthy preferred partner for Brighton ace Shane Duffy in the heart of defence.
McCarthy said yesterday: “John Egan was excellent at the back and Bournemouth are always a handful going forward.
“I really like John but my two centre-halves have been brilliant, especially in Denmark, and I’d have no reason to be looking to change them.
And a similar warning - or reality check - has been dished out to James McCarthy who is back in the mix after a serious injury.
He hasn’t played for Ireland since late 2016 but hopes to force his way into contention having joined Crystal Palace from Everton.
Yet Ireland boss McCarthy is refusing to offer any player a guarantee of playing and
said: “I’ve got to see him at his best, haven’t I?
“I’m not promising someone - hypothetically - that if he gets back to his best he’s first choice - no chance. He needs Premier League football.”
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