Jim Crawford has named a 22-man squad for Ireland’s key under-21 qualifier in Italy this month.
Southampton striker Michael Obafemi, who was unable to take part in the recent training camp in Northern Ireland, is included.
Obafemi, who was not released by his club for that camp, was disappointed at being overlooked by senior boss Stephen Kenny last month.
But Crawford expects him to be available for the Under-21s crunch qualifier in Pisa (October 13, 4.30pm).
His Saints team-mates, Will Ferry and Will Smallbone, join up with the squad for the first time along with Carlisle United striker Joshua Kayode.
Sligo Rovers goalkeeper Ed McGinty completes the uncapped quartet.
As expected, West Brom defender Dara O’Shea is included having been drafted into the senior squad as late cover last month.
With three games to go, Ireland lead the qualifying group by three points from Italy who have a game in hand.
“We know the challenge that awaits us in Pisa”, said Crawford.
“Italy are top seeds in the group and we expect this to be the toughest game we have played so far.”
“Our squad is very experienced, and includes senior internationals like Lee O’Connor and Michae Obafemil.
“The squad worked hard in last month’s training camp and I look forward to getting the group together next week before we travel to Italy.”
IRELAND UNDER-21 SQUAD
Goalkeepers : Gavin Bazunu (Rochdale, on loan from Manchester City), Ed McGinty (Sligo Rovers)
Defenders : Nathan Collins (Stoke City), Darragh Leahy (Dundalk), Conor Masterson (Queens Park Rangers), Danny McNamara (St Johnstone, on loan from Millwall), Lee O’Connor (Tranmere Rovers, on loan from Celtic), Thomas O’Connor (Southampton), Dara O’Shea (West Bromwich Albion), Liam Scales (Shamrock Rovers)
Midfielders : Conor Coventry (West Ham United), Will Ferry (Southampton), Jason Knight (Derby County), Daniel Mandroiu (Bohemians), Connor Ronan (Grasshopper Zurich, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Jack Taylor (Peterborough United)
Attackers : Jonathan Afolabi (Dundee, on loan from Celtic), Zach Elbouzedi (Lincoln City), Neil Farrugia (Shamrock Rovers), Joshua Kayode (Carlisle United, on loan from Rotherham United), Michael Obafemi (Southampton)
