BURNLEY striker Sam Vokes has been named in the Wales squad for their World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.

Vokes has scored eight goals for the Clarets this season but has had to make do with a place on the bench in recent weeks with Andre Gray and Ashley Barnes preferred up front.

But the 27-year-old is a key part of Chris Coleman's squad having played a crucial role in Wales reaching the semi-finals of the European Championships last year, when he scored in the quarter-final win over Belgium.

Vokes could come up against Clarets teammate Jeff Hendrick, Stephen Ward and Robbie Brady in Dublin next week.

Vokes is joined in the squad by Liverpool teenager Ben Woodburn.

Chester born Woodburn also qualifies to play for England, but his call-up to Coleman's 23-man party for the March 24 clash has ended speculation about his international future.

Woodburn became the youngest scorer in Liverpool history - at the age of 17 years and 45 days - when he was on target in the 2-0 EFL Cup victory over Leeds in November.

The 17-year-old forward has yet to start a Premier League game for the Reds, but he has become a regular member of Jurgen Klopp's senior squad in recent weeks and has already made seven first-team appearances.