Heimir Hallgrimsson talks up Shane Duffy and stands by Matt Doherty call

Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson has challenged Shane Duffy to bring the "steel" back to his team as he prepares for Nations League showdowns with Finland and England.

The 32-year-old central defender, whose only appearance for Ireland since November last year came in a 2-1 friendly victory over Hungary under interim head coach John O'Shea in June, has been included in a 23-man squad for the League B2 fixtures against the Finns in Dublin on Thursday, 14 November and the trip to Wembley three days later.

Duffy has played his way back into form with Sky Bet Championship Norwich and Hallgrimsson is confident his aggression and power will add something his side was missing in victory over Finland and defeat in Greece last month.

The Icelander said: "In the beginning, we went for the younger players, but I felt - especially last camp and the camp before - there were some areas we can improve.

"For example, we lost a lot of duels, especially against Greece in the first half, and his leadership, his character will probably help us in that area.

"It's good to see what he brings in and I hope they will be the attributes he will come in with, with leadership, a little bit more steel and winning duels, especially set pieces, etc.

"I hope that's what he will bring into the squad at this stage."

Duffy is not the only senior player to return to the Ireland squad with 36-year-old skipper Seamus Coleman, who missed last month's double-header with a foot injury, also included despite his Everton boss Sean Dyche revealing on Thursday he's carrying a hamstring injury.

However, there is once again no place for Wolves full-back Matt Doherty (above), who revealed his displeasure after being left out by Hallgrimsson in October at seeing