Ireland squad announced for crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Ireland face Hungary and Armenia in September

Heimir Hallgrímsson side take on Hungary at the Aviva Stadium on September 6, before a trip to Armenia on September 9.

Ireland are grouped with Portugal alongside Hungary and Armenia in Group F, with the top team going straight into the tournament in USA, Mexico and Canada, and the second-place team going into a play-off.

It is probably the strongest squad under Hallgrímsson so far, with big players such as Troy Parrott, Evan Ferguson, Finn Azaz, Nathan Collins, and Caoimhín Kelleher in good form, while star man Chiedozie Ogbene is back after a long lay-off.

There have been a few eyebrows raised, however, given that just four midfielders are named, with eight defenders and eight attackers.

Notable absentees include Stade Reims' John Patrick Finn, who made his debut against Luxembourg in June, and Başakşehir's Festy Ebosele, who shone in Ireland's Nations League win over Finland back in October.

Stoke City defender Bosun Lawal is the only uncapped player in the squad.