Ireland call up for Pompey forward Curtis

Portsmouth forward Ronan Curtis has been called up to the Ireland senior squad for their match against Wales in the UEFA Nations League.

Curtis, 22, has scored six goals and recorded five assists so far in League One this season proving to be one of Portsmouth’s influential players.

Curtis joins a select group of Irishmen to wear the green shirt whilst at Portsmouth, such as Marc Wilson.

Ireland host Wales at the Aviva stadium on October 16 in week four of the Nations League.

Chairman of the London Ireland supporters club, Martin Prendergast, has said this is a ‘great opportunity’ for Curtis but admits he will be unlikely to start as it’s his first call up.

He says it is a ‘big step up’ from League one football adding: “It is a complete change for him, there is a higher level of players at a higher intensity so it will be difficult to impress. The team is in transition so O’Neil is beginning to experiment with the squad so if he gets his opportunity, it will be a great experience for him.”

Martin thinks if Curtis can maintain his high performances at club level and take his opportunities at international level then he can become an ‘important figure’ for Ireland in the future.

Ireland had minimal chances, having only five shots with three on target. Ireland started with Bristol City’s Callum O’Dowda out wide, who had only managed 2 goals in 80 appearances since 2016. They also started with the defensive minded Cyrus Christie, so it is clear to see why they lacked a goal threat.

Ireland were defeated 4–1 last time out against the Welsh, proving that Martin O’Neil’s side need an added attacking threat.

Curtis hopes that his impressive start to the season has caught the eye of manager Martin O’Neil but says he is just 22 years of age and is in no ‘rush’ to play for Ireland yet.

He scored in the U21 European Qualifiers against Kosovo to earn them a 1–1 draw, with his performances earning him a promotion to the senior squad.

Ireland currently sit third in League B Group 4, but can overtake Wales if they manage a victory at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland come off the back of one win in five, the same form as Wales.