Strong Longford connection as former Melview FC player James Abankwah makes his senior debut for Ireland
Second half substitute for Seamus Coleman in the friendly at the Aviva Stadium
James Abankwah, a product of the Longford League with Melview FC, made his senior international debut for the Republic of Ireland in the 0-0 draw against North Macedonia in the friendly at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday night.
The 22-year-old defender came off the bench in the 61st minute to replace Seamus Coleman, although James had to be replaced by Alan Browne 22 minutes later, having sustained a dead leg in a clash with a North Macedonia opponent.
Defender Abankwah, who won the FAI Cup with St. Patrick's Athletic in 2021, has shown impressive form with Watford in the English Championship.