"O'Toole, 26, was born in New Jersey but qualifies for Ireland through his Irish grandfather. He told the Irish Star in 2024 that he would be proud to represent Ireland at international level, stating that he maintains a very strong connection with the country. O'Toole also said he would jump at the opportunity to play for Ireland and now has that opportunity after being included in Heimer Hallgrimsson's 25-man squad for crucial qualifying matches against Portugal and Hungary later in November."
"Ireland currently sit third in their World Cup qualifying group, one point behind second-placed Hungary, with second-place going to a play-off next spring. They will likely need to beat Hungary in Budapest in their final group game on Nov. 16 in order to leapfrog the Hungarians and could also need a result against Portugal in the interim."
"Hallgrimsson said he called O'Toole up to the squad to provide depth at left back following the injury of Preston's Robbie Brady and the suspension of Southampton's Ryan Manning. Callum O'Dowda, who has previously deputised at left-back, and Shamrock Rovers defender Josh Honohan have also struggled with fitness ahead of the crucial set of play-off matches."
Kevin O'Toole, 26, received his first Republic of Ireland call-up ahead of the final World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Hungary. He was born in New Jersey and qualifies for Ireland through his Irish grandfather. He expressed pride and a strong connection to Ireland and had been pursuing national-team clearance for over a year. Manager Heimer Hallgrimsson included O'Toole to provide left-back depth after injuries and suspensions to other options. Ireland sit third in their qualifying group and will likely need a win in Budapest on Nov. 16 to move into second place and reach a playoff position.
Read at www.amny.com
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