Izzy Atkinson called into Ireland squad for Nations League opener

Izzy Atkinson has been called up the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of Saturday's Nations League clash with Northern Ireland.

The West Ham player replaces Ruesha Littlejohn who has returned to her club with to recover from a quad injury picked up ahead of international camp.

Atkinson last played for the Girls in Green in the World Cup game against Canada in Perth.

Earlier today, interim manager Eileen Gleeson responded to criticism of former manager Vera Pauw by players this week.

Ireland Squad

Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan (Everton), Grace Moloney (London City Lionesses), Megan Walsh (West Ham United)

Defenders: Louise Quinn (Birmingham City), Diane Caldwell (FC Zurich), Claire O'Riordan (Standard Liege), Savannah McCarthy (Shamrock Rovers), Éabha O'Mahony (University of Texas), Hayley Nolan (Crystal Palace), Chloe Mustaki (Bristol City)

Midfielders: Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Tyler Toland (Blackburn Rovers), Jamie Finn (Birmingham City), Megan Connolly (Bristol City), Lily Agg (Birmingham City), Heather Payne (Everton), Lucy Quinn (Birmingham City), Marissa Sheva (Washington Spirit), Izzy Atkinson (West Ham United)

Forwards: Kyra Carusa (San Diego Wave), Abbie Larkin (Glasgow City), Amber Barrett (Standard Liege), Saoirse Noonan (Durham WFC), Emily Whelan (Glasgow City)