Ireland Under-20 squad announced for upcoming fixtures

Gavin Bazunu and Andrew Omobamidele named in squad for friendlies against Scotland and Norway

Ireland Under-20 manager Jim Crawford has announced his squad for the upcoming friendlies against Scotland and Norway.

The games will take place on March 23 and March 26 respectively, and will form part of Ireland's preparation for the UEFA Under-19 Championship in the summer.

Crawford has named a strong squad for the friendlies, with several players who have already made their mark at senior level.

Squad in full:

• Gavin Bazunu (Manchester City)
• Andrew Omobamidele (Norwich City)
• Lee O'Connor (Tranmere Rovers)
• Conor Masterson (Queens Park Rangers)
• Liam Scales (Celtic)
• Nathan Collins (Burnley)
• Kameron Ledwidge (Plymouth Argyle)
• Jack Taylor (Peterborough United)
• Mark McGuinness (Cardiff City)
• Joel Bagan (Sheffield Wednesday)
• Eiran Cashin (Brighton & Hove Albion)
• Festy Ebosele (Derby County)
• Will Smallbone (Southampton)
• Gavin Kilkenny (Bournemouth)
• Lifimi Oruch (Manchester United)
• Chris McCann (St Mirren)
• Dara O'Shea (West Bromwich Albion)
• Ross Tierney (Motherwell)
• Andy Lyons (Shamrock Rovers)

Bazunu and Omobamidele are the most experienced players in the squad, with both having already made their senior debuts for Ireland.

Bazunu is one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in Europe, and is currently on loan at Portsmouth from Manchester City.

Omobamidele is a talented defender who has made a big impression at Norwich City this season, making 15 appearances in the Premier League.

Crawford will be hoping that his team can build on their impressive performances in recent months, and continue their development ahead of the summer.