Crystal Palace starlet Sean Scannell has been called into the Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad for the first time.The 17-year-old was originally due to link up with the Under-19s for two friendly matches against France.

But the forward has been promoted to the Under-21 party for the forthcoming European Championship qualifier against Montenegro in Galway on Tuesday, March 25.

Scannell has made 19 appearances during his breakthrough season at Selhurst Park, scoring two goals and playing a key role in Palace's march up the table to the fringes of the play-offs.

He was also recently awarded the Irish Examiner Junior Sports award.

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