READING FC midfielder Liam Kelly has received his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad.
The 21-year-old was named in Martin O'Neill's 39-man provisional squad earlier today along with Royals skipper Paul McShane.
But Royals midfielder Stephen Quinn misses out due to an ongoing injury problem.
Kelly's inclusion in the senior squad continues the remarkable rise of the Royals Academy graduate who only 12 months ago was playing for non-league Bath City on loan.
But after forcing his way into Jaap Stam's first-team squad he has made 26 league and cup appearances this season, scoring once.
Kelly has represented Republic of Ireland at Under 19 and Under 21 level in the past, but had not been involved with the senior side until now.
Kelly, who recently signed a new contract with Reading until 2019, tweeted: 'Over the moon to receive my first call-up. Thanks everyone for the messages so far!'
Over the moon to receive my first call up 🍀 thanks everyone for the messages so far ! https://t.co/mPlsmosZLs
— Liam Kelly (@L_Kelly95) March 13, 2017
Kelly has been flooded with messages of congratulations since the squad was announced including one from former Royals striker, Adam Le Fondre, who now plays for Bolton Wanderers.
@L_Kelly95 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
— Adam Le Fondre (@A1F1E9) March 13, 2017
Ex-Reading stars Shane Long, Kevin Doyle, Alex Pearce and Jonny Hayes have also received an Ireland call-up ahead of a vital World Cup qualifier against Wales in Dublin followed by a friendly against Iceland.
Royals full-back Chris Gunter is almost certain to make the Wales squad when it announced later this week.
Meanwhile, Royals striker Deniss Rakels has been named in the Latvia squad ahead of their upcoming clashes against Switzerland and Georgia.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here