SAINTS defender Ryan Manning is being ‘monitored’ by the Republic of Ireland having missed out on a call-up for their friendlies this month.
The 27 year old did not make interim boss John O’Shea’s 26-man squad alongside Will Smallbone and Gavin Bazunu due to illness.
Manning has played 33 games for Southampton this season since joining on a free transfer following his departure from Swansea City.
Speaking to the press after announcing his first Ireland squad, former Manchester United defender O’Shea explained: “He’s been monitored.
“There could be a chance for him to come in towards the second game. We will have to wait and see.”
O’Shea was also asked about Ireland’s number-one goalkeeper dilemma. First-choice keeper Bazunu’s spot is at risk due to Caoimhin Kelleher’s stellar form.
Kelleher has impressed for Liverpool in Alisson Becker’s absence which could see him take Saints shot-stopper Bazunu’s spot between the sticks.
“It’s healthy competition in that sense,” O’Shea added. “It’s great to see Caoimhin get a consistent run of games. Gavin has had that all season.
“It’s a tricky one. Mark Travers was doing well at Stoke before he was called back by Bournemouth.
“I remember thinking about the quality in depth we have at goalkeeper back in the summer when the lads went away to Turkey.
“It’s going to be a tough decision. Who knows, we will get the Belgium game out of the way by picking one of them and then see what happens after that.
“It’s a nice problem to have. The big thing for me is the relationship you build up with the team — the unit between the back four or five.
“That will be the key thing for me, as soon as you get that relationship, you get a consistency to it.”