Collins in but Long out as Kenny names latest Ireland squad

.

Where one door closes another opens and so it is for Luton Town striker James Collins who has been called into Stephen Kenny's Republic of Ireland squad less than 24 hours after news that David McGoldrick has retired from international football.

Just as notable, however, is the absence of Southampton's Shane Long from the gathering. The veteran has managed just nine minutes across two cameo appearance for the Saints since the last international window. This will be Collins' first involvement under Kenny and his return to the scene comes on the back of his winner away to Rotherham in the Championship on Wednesday night. That's five goals in eight goals now for the Hatters this season.