Republic of Ireland Squad Omits Aoife Mannion and Megan Campbell for Women’s World Cup

Injuries Force Aoife Mannion and Megan Campbell to Miss World Cup Selection

The Republic of Ireland national team has announced their final squad for the upcoming Women’s World Cup, with some notable absentees due to injuries. Manchester United defender Aoife Mannion and Liverpool’s Megan Campbell were unable to make the cut.

Mannion suffered a knee injury towards the end of her season in the WSL, while Campbell has been struggling with fitness concerns lately. Their absence will certainly be felt by their respective clubs.

Omissions Surprise Fans as Leanne Kiernan and Jamie Finn Are Left Out

The exclusion of talented forward Leanne Kiernan from Liverpool comes as an unfortunate blow, considering her limited playing time this season due to various injuries. Additionally, fans were surprised by Birmingham City midfielder Jamie Finn not being selected despite her consistent performances under manager Vera Pauw.

Vera Pauw Trims Down Squad After Initial Training Group Announcement

Manager Vera Pauw initially named a training group consisting of 32 players but had to narrow it down to a final squad of only 23 members. Three additional travelling reserves will also be announced later.

Aoife Mannion’s recent performances for the Irish national team had given hope that she would recover in time to join the squad, despite only debuting this year after switching allegiance from England. However, her injury prevented her from making it into the final selection.

Megan Campbell’s Long-Throw Capability Will Be Missed

Republic of Ireland will also miss Megan Campbell’s long-throw ability, which has been a significant attacking threat for the team. Unfortunately, her ongoing fitness issues have made it impossible for her to travel and represent her country in Australia.

Pleasant Surprises Among Final Selections

Celtic defender Claire O’Riordan and Hearts midfielder Ciara Grant seem to be among the biggest beneficiaries of Pauw’s decision-making process. Their impressive performances during a recent friendly against Zambia secured their spots in the World Cup squad.

Liverpool’s Leanne Kiernan may feel unlucky to miss out on selection due to injury setbacks this season. Similarly, Birmingham City’s Harriet Scott finds herself on the list of big losers amid fierce competition in defensive positions.

Injury-Enforced Changes Allow Extra Players to Join Training Group

Birmingham City duo Jamie Finn and Harriet Scott, along with Lewes goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse, will still travel with the squad as training players due to injuries affecting other teammates. This adjustment allows them an opportunity to contribute positively during preparations for the tournament.

Full Republic of Ireland Squad:

• Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan (Everton), Grace Moloney (Reading), Megan Walsh (Brighton & Hove Albion)
• Defenders: Heather Payne (Florida State), Louise Quinn (Birmingham City), Niamh Fahey (Liverpool), Aine O’Gorman (Shamrock Rovers), Chloe Mustaki (Bristol City), Claire O’Riordan (Celtic), Diane Caldwell (Reading), Izzy Atkinson (West Ham), Megan Connolly (Brighton & Hove Albion)
• Midfielders: Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Lily Agg (London City Lionesses ), Ciara Grant(Hearts)
• Forwards: Amber Barrett(Standard Liege) Kyra Carusa(London City Lionesses) Abbie Larkin(Shamrock Rovers)

The Republic of Ireland will kick off their World Cup campaign against co-hosts Australia on July 20th. They will then face Olympic champions Canada in Perth and Nigeria in Brisbane as they aim to progress from Group B.