The League of Ireland Premier Division has been on an upward trajectory over the past few seasons. That can now be evidenced by the increased number of internationals, with a Waterford star now receiving a senior call-up.
The Irish top-flight returns this weekend after a brief summer break, but the Premier Division has a handful of internationals who may yet play a role for their country before the season recommences on Friday.
Growing Number of Internationals Enhances League’s Reputation
The big story of this international window was the inclusion of Shamrock Rovers left-back Josh Honohan in the Republic of Ireland squad for the friendlies against Senegal and Luxembourg.
It is still unclear if Honohan will receive his first cap with Robbie Brady starting in the left-sided role in the draw with Senegal, but with Ryan Manning also starting the Aviva fixture, there is scope for the Hoops’ star to make an appearance.
The 24-year-old is a threat in attacking areas and has been one of the standout stars in the Premier Division so far.
Roberto Lopes, also of Shamrock Rovers, is a key component of the Cape Verde backline and continues to be a feature, having impressed in their 2024 Africa Cup of Nations run.
Joseph Anang has been an excellent addition to St. Patrick’s Athletic, and the goalkeeper was on the bench in both of Ghana’s May international fixtures.
There are several Premier Division stars in the Ireland under-21 squad, paving the way for a new wave of internationals in the coming years.
The likes of Sean Grehan, Cory O’Sullivan, Cathal O’Sullivan, Jad Hakiki and Mason Melia are all talented enough to become full internationals shortly.
Waterford Town Goalkeeper Latest to Receive Call-Up
It was confirmed by Waterford on X that their 20-year-old keeper, Stephen McMullan, is the latest League of Ireland player to receive an international call-up.
Waterford had a tough start to the campaign, but their number one has been a consistent performer in their revival, pulling off some excellent saves to keep the team above the relegation places.
McMullan ranks first among all goalkeepers in the top-flight for saves and in the top two for efforts kept out from inside his 18-yard box.
He ranks just behind Drogheda United’s Luke Dennison for high claims, and the 20-year-old is developing into an excellent goalkeeper who should have a career in the EFL at a higher level than League Two should his form continue.
For now, the Northern Irish keeper will benefit from receiving a first senior call-up, having represented his nation at youth level, playing his last fixture for the under-21s in March.