THREE Donegal players have been included on the Republic of Ireland Women’s U19 squad for a mini tournament in Portugal next week.
Donegal Women’s League ace Emma Doherty and Sion Swifts duo Erin Fildara (pictured) and Kerry Brown have been selected by Irish manager Dave Connnell.
Three games in five days will provide the perfect test as they continue to strengthen their squad.
Ireland will travel to Portugal next week to take on the host nation, as well as Norway and Denmark in a mini tournament that will allow him to see his players up against elite opposition.
Ireland had two training camps in Limerick, which came off the back of playing Northern Ireland, as they ramp up preparations for their UEFA Under-19 Women’s European Championship qualifiers in October.
Connell said: “We are getting closer to our UEFA European Championship qualifiers and need to make the most of every opportunity that we can have with the players. That is why our recent training camps in Limerick were so crucial.
“But there is nothing like playing games against good teams, so going to Portugal to take on three teams who are in the top tier of women’s underage football will be great for us and we are looking forward to the challenge.
“We have selected a strong squad for these games, but it was difficult leaving some other players out and they should not feel that the door is closed. We will keep an open mind and judge players on their performances for club and country over the coming weeks.”
The games in Portugal will be played at the Portuguese FA HQ, Cidade do Futebol, in Lisbon.
