Sam Szmodics has been recalled into the Republic of Ireland squad for their upcoming doubleheader.

The Blackburn Rovers top-scorer spoke at length last week about his desire to return to the international set-up after the departure of Stephen Kenny. John O'Shea has taken over as interim boss for the upcoming matches.

After scoring 27 goals in all competitions for Rovers, it is not much surprise that Szmodics has been given the nod. He was called into the October squad but then had to withdraw due to personal reasons and was not considered in November for the same reasons.

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Szmodics insisted he had never turned his back on Ireland and reiterated it will be a proud moment if he makes his debut in the next fortnight.

Ireland take on Belgium and Switzerland in a pair of upcoming friendlies during the international break. Both games are at the Aviva Stadium, with Roberto Martinez's side travelling on Saturday, March 23 with Switzerland arriving three days later.

Yasin Ayari has also been selected for the Sweden Under-21s. The midfielder will be preparing for fixtures against Cyprus Under-21s and North Macedonia Under-21s.