“It would be massive” – Sean Grehan eyes Republic of Ireland Under-21 history
Sean Grehan has been chosen to represent Republic of Ireland Under-21s during the international break
Doncaster Rovers defender Sean Grehan has admitted it would be a “massive” achievement to help Republic of Ireland’s Under-21s qualify for their first European Championship.
The Rovers defender has been named in the squad for three crucial Euro qualifiers against Slovakia, Kazakhstan and England.
And with the Republic of Ireland yet to qualify for the Under-21 Euros, Sean is relishing the opportunity to try and make history.
“It would be great to be part of that team that did it,” he said. “It would be a tough task because the three games we have are all tough games.
“I think that bit of motivation to be part of that team that qualified for the first Under-21 Euros can help as well. Hopefully, we can get three good results and get there.”
The 21-year-old is also hoping his progress at Rovers can eventually lead to a senior call-up. Especially heading into Euro 2028 which will be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
“It’s every Irish kid’s dream to play for a senior team,” he said. “Hopefully, I can do it one day.
“The senior team manager has shown that he gives the young lads a chance. Lots of players from the previous 21 squads have gone on and got caps.
“It’s obviously the aim to go on and do the same.”
Sean, who has 15 caps at Under-21 level, has also established himself as an increasingly important member of Grant McCann’s side at club level this season, having missed just one game across all competitions. He has also recently filled in at right-back, despite being more accustomed to playing centrally.
“I don’t really care where I play once I’m on the pitch really,” he said. “That’s the main thing for me – being out there and playing.
“Every footballer nowadays has to be versatile and has to be able to play at least two positions.
“I think managers like that when players are able to play different positions because they have those options off the bench.”
Grehan will be joined on international duty by Rovers teammate Leon Ayinde. The winger registered his first goal against Huddersfield Town in the EFL Trophy before also claiming an assist in the recent win over Peterborough United.
Bayley McCann and Darren Robinson have been included in the group to represent Northern Ireland at Under-21 level while Tommy Simkin is one of the goalkeepers that Lee Carsley has at his disposal for England Under-21s.