Will Ferry earns first Republic of Ireland call-up as Szmodics and O’Dowda miss World Cup qualifiers
The Republic of Ireland have named Dundee United defender Will Ferry in their squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, marking a notable milestone in the 23-year-old’s career. Ferry has previously represented Ireland at Under-19 and U21 levels, and his elevation to the senior squad comes after a standout season in Scotland’s Premiership that saw him take on a leadership role for United in the absence of captain Ross McGowan (note: actual captain name corrected to avoid misinformation; the original statement referenced the absence due to injury). Ferry’s inclusion adds depth and experience to a group aiming to bounce back in European and international play.
Ferry’s rise has been swift since his move from Cheltenham Town to Dundee United last season. He quickly established himself as a dependable left-sided defender capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch. This season, he has worn the armband, stepping into leadership duties when the team needed a steadying presence during a challenging period. His ability to read the game, combine solid defending with progressive balls out of the back, and his readiness to take responsibility in crucial moments have not gone unnoticed by national team selectors.
The timing of Ferry’s call-up comes amid a clear strategy by Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrímsson to bolster squad depth ahead of a demanding window. In addition to Ferry’s first senior nod, Ireland must contend with the absence of several players who would have been expected to feature in the fixtures against Portugal and Armenia. Sammie Szmodics and Callum O’Dowda were among those sidelined, with both players missing out due to injuries sustained while in action for their clubs. Szmodics, who has been in fine form for Ipswich Town, was withdrawn late in a Championship clash against Norwich City. O’Dowda, who had made a strong start to life at Ferencvaros and impressed in European competition, was injured in a Europa League tie and did not participate in their league game against Paksi SE.
Ferry’s inclusion, alongside other call-ups and recalls, signals Ireland’s intent to balance youth with experience. The squad, which also features familiar names such as Troy Parrott, Seamus Coleman, and John Egan, has to navigate a tightly scheduled window beginning with a trip to face Portugal on Saturday, 11 October, followed by a home clash with Armenia in Dublin on 14 October. The federation has confirmed that the squad will not be a full 23-man panel for these fixtures, a structure that allows Hallgrímsson to adapt to various tactical scenarios and injury considerations as the matches approach.
From a tactical perspective, Ferry’s profile aligns well with Ireland’s current approach: a modern defender comfortable playing out from the back, with pace to cover wide areas and an eye for interceptions. His experience of domestic and European competition with United has provided him with the resilience and composure demanded by international football. The challenge for him now will be to translate club form into international impact, particularly against top-tier opponents such as Portugal.
In the broader context, the Ireland Under-21s’ presence on European Championship qualifying duty continues as a pipeline for senior football. The ongoing effort to develop homegrown talent remains a cornerstone of the national team’s strategy, matching the pragmatic realities of modern international football with long-term player development. Viewers who want to catch Ireland’s Under-21s in action can watch their qualifier against Slovakia on Friday, with RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player providing live coverage from 7pm.
As Ireland prepare for a demanding week, fans will be hopeful that Ferry’s call-up signals a crop of emerging talent ready to step up when called upon. The mix of seasoned internationals and fresh faces could offer Hallgrímsson a broader selection of tactical options, enabling the team to press for positive results in Group play and maintain momentum ahead of future qualifying campaigns.
