Jack Grealish has pulled out of Noel King’s Ireland U21 squad for Thursday’s friendly against Norway (6pm Irish time) — hours after England U21 boss Gareth Southgate confirmed he still wants the Aston Villa man to declare for the Three Lions.

Knives sharpened, the critics emerged in their droves from the long grass.

Luxembourg U19 2 Ireland U19 5

THE Republic’s Under 17s will be desperate to avoid a Greek tragedy as they strive for the one qualifying place for May’s UEFA Championship finals this week in Alexandropolis.