Looking back, it’s hard to remember a more potentially depressing Ireland fixture than Tuesday’s friendly with North Macedonia.

This game had long been viewed as a potential World Cup decider, with Denmark possibly coming to Dublin to duke it out for a place at this summer’s tournament in North America. Instead, the sold-out Aviva Stadium crowd will be treated to a meaningless game against the world’s 67th best side.

From a fan perspective, there isn’t a huge amount on the line in this game. However, for a handful of Ireland players, there is quite a bit that could be gained from the meeting with the North Macedonians.

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Ireland stars that could gain from North Macedonia clash
Harvey Vale

Harvey Vale made a brief cameo off the bench in Prague, but Tuesday’s game should be the first opportunity supporters will have to take a proper look at him in a green jersey.

The QPR player only came into the international fold in the last couple of weeks, although he was said to be on the FAI’s radar for quite some time. He certainly has traits that would make him a potentially attractive addition to the squad.

Vale looks incredibly comfortable in possession, a skill sadly lacking among many of our current players. He can play multiple positions and has a creative streak as well as an eye for goal.

You would imagine that he will play fairly significant minutes in this game and will get the opportunity to show what he can offer at international level. This team is crying out for a creative force in the final third and he will be hoping to provide it.

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Bosun Lawal

Bosun Lawal’s international debut is long overdue, but it should finally arrive in the game against North Macedonia.

The Stoke City player could have been in the running to start against Czechia were it not for his recent injury issues. Heimir Hallgrimsson has admitted in the past that he is keen to integrate him into the side.

Much like Vale, Lawal offers certain traits that are otherwise hard to come by in the current Ireland squad. He is a physically imposing central midfielder, one that is capable of both bullying opponents and covering a significant amount of ground in the middle third.

It remains to be seen if the 22-year old will be fit enough to start on Tuesday. However, he should get the opportunity to make his case for a future place in the starting lineup in a real position of need for Ireland.

A good display could see him become a key player for the UEFA Nations League campaign later this year.

 

Millenic Alli

The latest addition to the squad, uncapped Millenic Alli was only added to the group over the last couple of days. In saying that, the 26-year old could get an immediate opportunity to stake his claim for future selection.

Ireland are sorely lacking options in wide positions, something that has no doubt been a factor in Heimir Hallgrimsson’s move to a 3-4-2-1 system.

Alli can play both up front and out wide, with that sort of versatility a valuable asset at international level. Hallgrimsson mentioned the player’s pace and power as one of the key reasons behind his call-up.

It remains to be seen if he will feature in this game, although it will certainly be a good opportunity to showcase his talents to both management and the supporters if he does so.

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