While there will not be too much to play for when Ireland face Belgium and Switzerland in two friendlies later this month, there will be a few things to keep supporters interested ahead of the two fixtures at the Aviva Stadium.
There is no permanent manager in place, but it will be interesting to see how the team looks to kick-off the post-Kenny era. As well as that, a number of players are likely to make their senior international debuts.
Lyon's Jake O'Brien and Middlesborough's Finn Azaz have both been called up to the squad for the first time, with the uncapped Sammie Szmodics also included.
The Blackburn Rovers forward has been in sensational form this season, scoring 27 times in all competitions. He has been included in past Ireland squads, firstly in June of 2021 only to have to withdraw due to passport issues. He then pulled out of the October international window and was unavailable the following month.
That led to some speculation that the player could be poached by Hungary, who he qualifies to play for via his grandfather. In fact, the Hungarian manager admitted that they were interested in bringing him onboard.
That rumour was put to bed by the player's call-up this month.
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Sammie Szmodics calls out rumours of Ireland switch
Sammie Szmodics was unavailable for the October and November international windows due to personal reasons, although it was suggested by some that this was due to a switch to Hungary.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the 28-year old said there was never an ounce of truth behind those rumours. He has long wanted to play for Ireland and is looking forward to finally doing so this month.
I have been waiting for a number of years, I had loads of passport problems behind the scenes, and not being picked, not wanting to go because of certain things.
It feels like a fresh start and something that I am really excited for. I have had to leave two camps previously, for personal issues, I read things on Twitter that were not true. I tried to get across to everyone that this is something I really wanted to do.
When John O’Shea rang me and told me I was going to be in it, and get some minutes, it’s something that is going to be really proud for me and my family as this is something we all want to do.
My family will all come out, hopefully I can get on the pitch and make an impact.
Considering Ireland's issues in front of goal over the last few years, adding a player with Sammie Szmodics' form in that area should be quite the boost ahead of the UEFA Nations League campaign later this year.
Here's hoping he can get off the mark over the next couple of games. He certainly has the potential to be a valuable addition to the squad.
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