Michael Obafemi on board for Ireland U21s' crucial qualifier against Azzurri

Obafemi was also absent last month when U21 manager Jim Crawford held a training camp at Queens University Belfast

The absence of the Southampton striker from Kenny's first senior squad last month became a major talking point after the player posted a tweet shortly afterwards saying, 'Intresting' (sic)

Michael Obafemi is ready to work his back into Stephen Kenny's senior Republic of Ireland plans via the U21s who face into a crucial, top-of-the-table European Championship qualifier away to Italy later this month.

The absence of the Southampton striker from Kenny's first senior squad last month became a major talking point after the player posted a tweet shortly afterwards saying, 'Intresting' (sic) followed by a quizzical and a laughing emoji.