Lord of the Dance
Mark Sykes called up for Norway & Malta
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Mark Sykes called up for Norway & Malta

BRISTOL CITY WINGER Mark Sykes has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad to face Norway and Malta. 

Sykes comes into the squad as Birmingham City striker Scott Hogan and Wigan Athletic striker Will Keane withdraw from the squad through injury.

The 25-year-old played for Northern Ireland before switching his international colours two years ago.

Stephen Kenny's side trained at the Aviva Stadium today ahead of Thursday's game against the Norwegians.

The good news for Ireland is that Erling Haaland will not play.

Norway's Stale Solbakken has given the star striker the night off and will select him for the Finland game on Sunday.

Ireland will also play friendly against Malta on Sunday, November 20.

Evan Ferguson and Will Smallbone have also been called up to the squad for the Ireland U21s.

Republic of Ireland Squad - Norway & MaltaGoalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool), Gavin Bazunu (Southampton), Mark Travers (AFC Bournemouth).

Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Matt Doherty (Tottenham Hotspur), Nathan Collins (Wolverhampton Wanderers), John Egan (Sheffield United), Dara O'Shea (West Bromwich Albion), Darragh Lenihan (Middlesbrough), Liam Scales (Aberdeen, on loan from Celtic), James McClean (Wigan Athletic), Robbie Brady (Preston North End), Mark Sykes (Bristol City).

Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jeff Hendrick (Reading, on loan from Newcastle United), Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Alan Browne (Preston North End), Will Smallbone (Stoke City, on loan from Southampton), Jamie McGrath (Dundee United).

Forwards: Michael Obafemi (Swansea City), Callum Robinson (Cardiff City), Chiedozie Ogbene (Rotherham United), Evan Ferguson (Brighton and Hove Albion), Callum O'Dowda (Cardiff City).