Jeff Hendrick and Conor SammonUNCAPPED Derby County trio Jeff Hendrick, Conor Sammon and Richard Keogh have been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for a friendly against Poland.
Midfielder Hendrick, 20, striker Sammon, and defender Keogh, both 26, have all played for the Under-21s, but could gain their first full caps in Dublin next month after being named by Eire boss Giovanni Trapattoni.
All three players have been regulars for the Rams this season, with Keogh – who has also skippered the Under-21s - wearing the captain’s armband in the continued absence of club skipper Shaun Barker.
Rams boss Nigel Clough believes the international call to arms will benefit his players.
He said: “It’s fantastic news for Derby County to have three players called up for full international honours and we’re delighted for Richard, Conor and Jeff.
“In their own ways they have all contributed to what has been a very positive season so far on the pitch, and it’s extremely pleasing to have our players’ performances recognised with international call-ups.
“It’ll be a great experience for all three of them, there’s no doubt about that and hopefully we’ll reap the benefits of that as well.”
President and CEO Sam Rush said: “These call-ups are a great reflection on the performances put in by all three players throughout the season thus far.
“The call-ups for Richard, Conor and Jeff are a great boost, not just for them, but for the club as a whole, and is a further example of the good work done by all at Derby County.”
