Vera Pauw reveals Republic of Ireland WNT squad for February camp

The Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team have finalised their squad for a training camp in Spain that will play a key part in their preparations for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Manager Vera Pauw will use the 10 days to work with her players at their training base in Marbella ahead of taking on AFC Women’s Asian Cup winner China PR in an International Friendly on February 22 in Estadio Nuevo Mirador, Algeciras, Cadiz.

Ruesha Littlejohn, Megan Connolly and Heather Payne return to the squad after missing last November’s 4-0 win over Morocco, while Durham WFC goalkeeper Naoisha McAloon and Glasgow City defender Claire Walsh are brought in following impressive spells at club level.

There are first-time call-ups for two players who have received FIFA international clearance: defender Aoife Mannion and forward Marissa Sheva.

Manchester United centre-back Mannion has roots in Mayo (mother) and Galway (father), while Sheva has connections with Tyrone (Grandfather) and Donegal (Grandmother).

Injuries rule out Niamh Fahey, Savannah McCarthy, Chloe Mustaki, Ellen Molloy, Jess Ziu, Aoife Colvill and Leanne Kiernan.

The squad will assemble in Spain on Monday, February 13 to begin the training camp that will conclude with the International Friendly against China PR.

Broadcast details will be announced in due course.