"I'm elated at the call-up. I've been in discussion with the head coach for about a year now and it was just a matter of getting all the paperwork done and sorted,"
"I'm absolutely excited to be here, especially for these huge matches that we have coming up. Just buzzing to be with the group and to meet all the guys and get acquainted with everyone. It's just an honour to represent Ireland and honour my grandfather's memory, I'm really proud."
"My grandfather was a Dubliner who emigrated to the US in 1958, started a family in the US, and I was born in New York City. This was always a dream of mine, to represent this country, to do it for my grandfather. We've got a really strong Irish connection and roots."
"My dad and my mum are super proud and I just want to do a job for them because they have invested so much in my career process."
Heimir Hallgrimsson called up 26-year-old New York City FC left-sided defender Kevin O'Toole to the Republic of Ireland squad for home matches against Portugal and an away game in Hungary. O'Toole qualifies through his Dublin-born grandfather and received international clearance in time to join the squad. Injuries to Robbie Brady and Callum O'Dowda and a one-game suspension for Ryan Manning contributed to the selection. O'Toole expressed pride in representing Ireland and honouring his grandfather's memory, described a strong Irish family connection, and noted his parents' support and investment in his career. His sister Jillian plays in the Irish Women's Premier Division.
Read at www.bbc.com
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