Forgotten Sheffield United man secures international call-up for huge World Cup play-off clash
Sheffield United loanee Chiedozie Ogbene has been included in the Republic of Ireland’s 25-man squad for their crunch World Cup play-off semi-final against the Czech Republic later this month.
Ogbene, who joined the Blades on a season-long loan deal from Championship counterparts Ipswich Town last September, has struggled for game time recently, featuring in just two of United’s last ten league outings.
Despite that, he is considered as an important member of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson’s plans, meaning he has been presented with the opportunity to try and help his country reach their first World Cup since 2002.
They kept their World Cup qualifying dream alive in dramatic fashion back in November, recovering from 2-1 down to beat Hungary 3-2 in their final qualifier and clinch second spot in Group F, finishing two points ahead of Hungary. Their reward is a second shot at qualification via the European play-offs.
Drawn into Path D, Hallgrímsson’s troops face a semi-final away from home against the Czech Republic on March 26. If they come out on top, they will then face either Denmark or North Macedonia in Path D play-off final to try and seal a spot at this summer’s showpiece event.
In the event of Ireland beating the Czech Republic, they will host the winner of the tie between Denmark and North Macedonia in the play-off final on March 31.
Ogbene, who was forced off in the aforementioned victory over Hungary with a hamstring injury, has played a key role in Ireland’s qualification campaign to date, starting five of their six matches.
However, he has struggled for regular opportunities at Bramall Lane, making just 12 appearances this season, chipping in with one goal. He has not even featured in six of United’s last seven matchday squads.
Meanwhile, fellow Blades Mark McGuiness and Tom Cannon have not made the cut. Neither of them have represented Ireland since the November international break in 2024.
However, former United defender John Egan, who is now at Hull City, has been included in the 25-man squad.