Lord of the Dance
Ireland WNT defender Patten eligible for opening EURO 2025 qualifiers
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Ireland WNT defender Patten eligible for opening EURO 2025 qualifiers

Anna Patten has been integrated into the Republic of Ireland Women's National Team squad after receiving international clearance from FIFA.

The 24-year-old defender required a change of association and has now been given the green light to be eligible for the EURO 2025 qualifiers against France (April 5) and England (April 9).

Patten's Irish roots connect back to her grandfather Donald Coyle, who hails from Falcarragh in Donegal, and her grandmother Bridie Coyle (nee Conroy), who was from Lettermore in Galway.

Sourcing her grandparents as having the biggest influence on her career, Patten said, "I'm delighted to be in the Ireland squad. I was super excited when Eileen (Gleeson, Head Coach) gave me the call, and now to have the clearance come through is great.

"This is a really strong squad and I just want to bring what I can to it to help the team. My Grandparents have always been my greatest supporters and they have really motivated me to work hard to succeed in my career, so I'm delighted to be able to represent Ireland through them."

Patten linked up with the Ireland squad on Monday as they began preparations for their opening qualifiers in Group A3.