Newcastle midfielder Finneran replaces Umeh in Ireland senior squad 2026

Newcastle United midfielder Rory Finneran earns his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad for a friendly against Grenada.

New call-up for Finneran Newcastle United midfielder Rory Finneran has been included in the Republic of Ireland senior squad for the first time. The 18-year-old will join the team’s training camp in Murcia, Spain ahead of their friendly match against Grenada on Saturday at Estadio Nueva Condomina [17:00 BST]. Finneran made the switch from Blackburn Rovers to Newcastle in 2024 and has previously represented Ireland at under-17 and under-19 levels. ## Squad changes due to injuries The addition of Finneran comes after two players were ruled out through injury. Cardiff City defender Joel Bagan and Ipswich Town winger Kasey McAteer have withdrawn from the squad. Their absences created space for the Newcastle youngster to step into the international set-up. ## Umeh's withdrawal explained Benfica attacker Jaden Umeh, who had earned his first senior call-up, has been removed from the squad by his club. Benfica’s under-19 team faces a crucial match against Famalicao on Saturday and require Umeh’s availability for that game. Umeh scored twice in a 6-2 victory over UD Leiria last Sunday, helping his side’s qualification push in the Uefa Youth League. ## Coach addresses Umeh's absence Heimir Hallgrimsson acknowledged the situation regarding Umeh’s withdrawal. He noted that Benfica were still competing to secure a place in the Uefa Youth League, adding that their results had not gone as planned. The coach stated they had anticipated the possibility of Umeh’s unavailability before the announcement. Hallgrimsson expressed disappointment but respected the club’s decision, noting they would look to include him in a future international window.