Stoke's Bosun Lawal called up to Ireland squad for Luxembourg friendly

STEPPING UP: Bosun Lawal playing for Ireland U21. File picture: Jim Coughlan/Inpho

Stoke City midfielder Bosun Lawal has joined the Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming friendly match against Luxembourg on Tuesday. 

The 22-year-old who previously earned 12 caps with Jim Crawford’s Ireland U21 team, plays primarily as a holding midfielder but can operate as a centre back.

Lawal's debut season at Stoke was hindered by a back injury that kept him out of action for a long period. He has made only six appearances after signing a four-year contract following three years at Celtic.

However, manager Heimir Halgrimsson has clearly seen the midfielders potential, choosing to call him up to the squad in June of last year and now again for the upcoming friendly. 

Lawal developed his skills at St Kevin’s and Bohemians before transferring to Watford in 2019.

Hallgrimsson has decided to rest some key figures in the squad including Josh Cullen and Finn Azaz who will have a full offseason before the World Cup qualifier against Hungary on September 6.

The 24-man squad trained this morning and will travel to Luxembourg later today.