Ireland squad named as O'Neill admits Declan Rice is pondering future | OneFootball

Harry Arter, Shane Long and Greg Cunningham are among eight players returning to the team after missing the September fixtures.

However, one name that does not feature is Declan Rice with manager O’Neill admitting the versatile West Ham defender, also eligible to play for England, is still mulling over his international future.

“I’ve spoken to Declan and the family,” said the Ireland manager. “They want a little bit more time to make his mind up. He hasn’t made a decision yet. I am hopeful.”

The 19-year-old qualifies for Ireland through his father and has played for the Republic at every age-group level.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old midfielder Richie Towell, on loan at Rotherham from Brighton, has received his first call-up.

Republic of Ireland Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Colin Doyle (Hearts), Sean McDermott (Kristiansund BK)

Defenders: Cyrus Christie (Fulham), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), Kevin Long (Burnley), John Egan, Enda Stevens (Sheffield United), Darragh Lenihan, Derrick Williams (Blackburn Rovers), Greg Cunningham (Cardiff City)

Midfielders: Alan Judge (Brentford), Jeff Hendrick (Burnley), Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Alan Browne (Preston North End), Shaun Williams (Millwall), David Meyler (Reading), Harry Arter (Cardiff City), Daryl Horgan (Hibernian), Callum O’Dowda (Bristol City), James McClean (Stoke City), Richie Towell (Rotherham United)

Forwards: Shane Long (Southampton), Graham Burke, Callum Robinson, Sean Maguire (Preston North End), Aiden O’Brien (Millwall), Scott Hogan (Aston Villa), Ronan Curtis (Portsmouth)