Millenic Alli is the latest name into the Republic of Ireland squad, and it’s one that may have caught plenty off guard.
The 26-year-old winger has been drafted in by Heimir Hallgrimsson ahead of Tuesday’s friendly with North Macedonia, with injuries forcing a late reshuffle in the squad.
With Sammie Szmodics unavailable and doubts surrounding Jack Taylor, Alli has been handed an opportunity that represents a huge step forward in a career that has taken a different route to most international footballers.
Who Is Millenic Alli? All You Need To Know On Shock Ireland Call-Up
Recommended
A native of Lucan, Alli came through the ranks with Esker Celtic and St Francis before moving to England as a 14-year-old. What followed was a long spell in non-league football, working his way through the system before eventually getting his break.
That chance came in 2024 when Exeter City brought him into the English Football League. He impressed quickly enough to earn a move to Luton Town after just one season, with a reported fee of around £1.5 million reflecting how highly he was rated.
Alli showed glimpses of his quality despite Luton’s difficult campaign, scoring four goals in the final six games of the season, although he couldn’t prevent their relegation. With expectations of an immediate return to the Championship, things haven’t gone to plan this year, and Alli found himself in and out of the side before making a January loan move back to the Championship.
That switch to Portsmouth FC has at least brought consistent minutes. He has started all 14 league games since arriving, scoring once as Portsmouth look to steer clear of trouble near the bottom of the table.
It’s that regular game time, more than anything, that appears to have caught the attention of Hallgrimsson. Alli trained with the Ireland squad today as the focus begins to shift towards Euro 2028, with the Ireland manager clearly open to taking a look at players outside the established core.
SEE ALSO: Heimir’s Amazing Response To Séamus Coleman Retirement Question Showed A Touch Of Class
SEE ALSO: Robbie Keane Staunchly Defended Three Ireland Stars After World Cup Heartbreak