Republic of Ireland under-21 manager Jim Crawford has handed first call-ups to Eiran Cashin and Mipo Odubeko. 

The pair have been included in a 21-man selection for the crucial European Championship qualifier against Sweden later this month.

Cashin has shot to prominence as a defender at Derby, where manager Wayne Rooney has hailed some of his performances as 'incredible'.

Striker Odubeko is currently on loan at League One outfit Doncaster Rovers from West Ham.

The Sweden game, which takes place in a fortnight's time, is likely to be pivotal as Ireland attempt to qualify for the tournament proper in Georgia and Romania next year.

They're third in the table with ten points from their six matches and have a game in hand on the Swedes, who lead the standings on 14.

Italy occupy second place, but have only played five games.

Ireland beat Sweden in the corresponding fixture in Tallaght last November, when Ollie O'Neill scored a late winner.

The group winner will advance to the competition-proper, while the second-placed side is guaranteed at least a play-off.

Meanwhile, Crawford has also announced an under-20 squad for a game against an Irish Amateur selection.

Republic of Ireland Under-21s Squad 

Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (Derry City), Luke McNicholas (Cliftonville, on loan from Sligo Rovers), David Odumosu (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

Defenders: Joel Bagan (Cardiff City), Eiran Cashin (Derby County),  Andy Lyons (Shamrock Rovers), Mark McGuinness (Cardiff City), Jake O’Brien (Swindon Town, on loan from Crystal Palace), Lee O’Connor (Tranmere Rovers)

Midfielders: Conor Coventry (MK Dons, on loan from West Ham United), Dawson Devoy (Bohemians), Gavin Kilkenny (Bournemouth), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Ross Tierney (Motherwell)

Forwards: Festy Ebosele (Derby County), Evan Ferguson (Brighton & Hove Albion), JJ Kayode (Rotherham United), Mipo Odubeko (Doncaster Rovers, on loan from West Ham United), Ollie O’Neill (Fulham), Colm Whelan (UCD), Tyreik Wright (Colchester United, on loan from Aston Villa)