The Republic of Ireland squad gather in Abbotstown today, ahead of the coming weeks crucial World Cup qualifiers.
Martin O'Neill's men are away to Georgia on Saturday, before welcoming Serbia to Dublin three days later.
2 big games coming up let's do it 👠#ireland 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/188R8i57R1
— Shane Duffy (@shaneduffy) August 28, 2017
At the moment, The boys in green are second in Group D, behind the Serbs on goal difference.
Before coming to Dublin, the group leaders face Moldova, who are yet to win a game in this campaign.
Jonathan Walters, Jeff Hendrick, James McCarthy and Kieran Westwood are all injury doubts for the Republic heading into the two games.
Former Ireland international Darren O'Dea feels the squad assembling in Dublin today should be in good form reporting for international duty "This part of the season is absolutely fine, there won't be any problems for the players. They'll be well back into their groove by the time they meet up.".
"I'm hoping all the players are fit and ready to go, because it's a massive couple of games coming up."
Seani Maguire was named in the provisional squad for these games. The former Cork City man is now plying his trade with Preston in the Championship and featured in their 0-0 draw with Middlebrough at the weekend.
Despite a solid start to life at his new club, O'Dea doesn't feel the time is right to introduce him to the upcoming match-day squads.
"It is great to see that he is in the squad, but I don't think these games are for any sort of experimentation or new players, especially when you're going to need the experienced players".
"Don't forget the players that have been there and have got us to this point deserve to be there if they're playing well with their club. I think he might have to wait, but his time will come."
