West Ham youngster Ademipo Odubeko has pulled out of the Republic of Ireland squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers this month.
As reported by The Irish Post, Odubeko has been removed from the senior squad with the FAI saying the decision made is “in the best interest of the player”.
The 18-year-old has been called up as a late replacement for the matches with Serbia, Luxembourg and Qatar as Stephen Kenny’s squad was badly hit by injuries.
However, after an agreement was reached between club and country, Odubeko will now remain with the Hammers throughout the international break.
The talented teenager has made two senior appearances in this seasons FA Cup and also scored twice as the young Irons overcame Norwich City 5-0 on Monday afternoon.
OPINION
Although this perhaps benefits West Ham in the long-run as the chances of picking up an injury are limited, it’s hard to feel it an opportunity missed for the teenager.
Odubeko would almost certainly have featured for Ireland across the three matches and with it making a giant step in his career.
No doubt another opportunity will come along in the not so distant future as long as the striker continues progressing as he is.
