Jamie Donley Joins Northern Ireland Squad as Eoin Toal Sidelined with Injury

Jamie Donley has been officially added to the Northern Ireland squad for the upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Sweden, marking his first senior call-up. However, the team will be without defender Eoin Toal, who has been sidelined due to injury. Toal's place has been taken by Kofi Balmer, who is expected to step up and make an impact.

Donley, a 20-year-old forward currently on loan at League One side Leyton Orient from Tottenham Hotspur, has previously represented Northern Ireland at the youth level before switching allegiance to England. His return to the Northern Ireland setup has been met with enthusiasm, particularly from manager Michael O'Neill.

O'Neill expressed his delight at Donley's inclusion, stating, "I am pleased to welcome Jamie into the squad. He is a young player that we have been tracking for some time." The manager also mentioned that the team is awaiting FIFA paperwork to confirm Donley's eligibility for the matches. "We are waiting on the relevant paperwork from FIFA to be processed before we can determine whether he plays an active role in any of the games, but having him in and around the place to familiarise himself with the place and stuff I felt was important," O'Neill added.

Regarding Toal's absence, O'Neill admitted his disappointment but remained confident in Balmer's abilities. "I was disappointed for Eoin, but I am confident that Kofi can come in and make an impact," he said.

The Northern Ireland squad will face Switzerland on Friday at home, followed by a match against Sweden on Tuesday. These friendlies will serve as crucial preparation for upcoming competitive fixtures, and the inclusion of Donley adds a fresh dynamic to the team's attacking options.