Brighton & Hove Albion defender Glen Rea has been named in the Republic of Ireland under-21 squad for their two friendly games against USA and Russia in Marbella, Spain.
Rea has been named in coach Noel King’s 23-man squad for the matches against the Americans on Saturday 15th November and Russia on Monday 17th November.
He told seagulls.co.uk, “I was buzzing when I found out. Simon Ireland rang me and said I was in the squad and now I just can’t wait to show what I can do out there.
“I had already got my passport changed so I could be eligible to play, but I wasn’t going to count my chickens.
“I was just hoping to get called up at some point and it feels incredible to be named in the squad. Hopefully I can go out there and give a good account of myself.”
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"I’m expecting to face good players and I know it’s going to be hard because the standard of international football is very high. I will just work hard and see what happens.”
“I texted Kieran saying I’d been called up and he was really pleased for me. He told me a bit about the squad and that the lads are really friendly, so I can’t wait to get out there.
“A few people have told me that the USA are a strong, athletic side and Russia will probably be the same as well. It’s going to be a great experience for me, especially as this is the first time I’ve ever been called up.
The 20-year-old is expecting two tough tests in the upcoming games and is looking forward to linking up with Kieran Sadlier, who had a short spell with Albion’s under-21s before returning to West Ham United.
