Aaron Connolly call-up for Under-21s a 'risky' move - Gary Rogers

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad that has put itself on the brink of making history has been a largely settled one during the current European Championship campaign.

While there have been personnel changes along the way as they navigated a tricky group and sealed a play-off spot, head coach Jim Crawford hasn't looked to draft in eligible players from the senior squad - albeit that those options like Gavin Bazunu, Troy Parrott et al are firmly established in Stephen Kenny's set-up.

But ahead of the crucial play-off tie against Israel - the first leg coming on Friday in Tallaght live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player - one notable addition was made in the shape of Aaron Connolly.

It has been just shy of three years since the 22-year-old was elevated to senior status amid general acclaim under Mick McCarthy and eight senior caps have followed.

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But as the player himself outlined in detail recently, he required a fresh start at Venezia this season on loan from Brighton and in the early season in Serie B he has begun to force his way into the starting line-up.

With Connolly not considered for the seniors for the current UEFA Nations League window as he gets back up to speed, Crawford said the player was eager to link up with the U21s to try and help them reach the European Championships for the very first time.

"I rang Aaron a few times, we've had conversations, we had a Zoom call," Crawford said.

"I just think it was important to stress to him and underline to him what got us to the play-offs.

"The