Jim Crawford delighted for Andrew Moran after senior call-up but keeps focus on U21s' crucial Norway clash

Republic of Ireland Under-21 manager Jim Crawford admits not having Andrew Moran available for Friday's crucial European Championship qualifier against Norway is a "loss" for his squad but is delighted that the attacking midfielder is making the step up to Stephen Kenny's senior team.

Moran, who has been impressing for Blackburn Rovers on loan from Brighton this season, was elevated into the Ireland senior squad on Tuesday amid injury concerns for a number of Kenny's players.

Moran has been a key figure for the U21s at the start of this Euro qualifying campaign, playing a captain's part as Crawford's side won their first three games on the trot, including an excellent strike in the 3-2 home win over Turkey in September.

But the 20-year-old call-up to Irish senior set-up means he will not be available for their clash against Norway in Drammen on Friday afternoon (live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player), nor the home fixture against Italy next Tuesday.

However, Crawford expressed joy for Moran and praised the work of his boyhood clubs Knocklyon United, St Joseph's Boys and League of Ireland side Bray Wanderers.

"It's a little bit of mixed feelings but ultimately it's about the player. I'm delighted for Andy," he said.

"He's been exceptional in the games he's played for Blackburn and we always sort of knew that it wouldn't be too long before he gets that senior call-up.

"But I think when he's in camp, which at the start when you're pieceing together your game plan, obviously Andy would be central to that.

"But he's got the call-up and we were made aware that there were a number of players in the senior team who had some issues and were waiting on scan results."

To replace Moran in his squad, Crawford in turn promoted St Patrick's Athletic