Irish call-up for PNE quartet

Four Preston North End players have been named in the Republic of Ireland squad for their two forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Serbia.

Sean Maguire, Greg Cunningham, Alan Browne and Daryl Horgan are in a provisional 39-man squad announced by Martin O'Neill on Monday.

It is Maguire's first call-up to the senior squad, the striker having joined North End in July from League of Ireland leaders Cork City.

O'Neill had watched Maguire in action for Cork against Dundalk shortly before his switch to Deepdale.

"I thought he was excellent against Dundalk," said O'Neill.

"He is in the provisional squad. I hope he can get a chance."

Cunningham, appointed PNE stand-in skipper this season in the absence of Tom Clarke, last played for his country in 2013.

Given his good form over the last two seasons, it is seen by many Preston supporters as an overdue call-up.

Greg Cunningham in action for PNE at Leeds

Midfielder Browne won his first Irish cap in June in their friendly against Mexico, having been a regular performer in the Under-21s.

Horgan has been in the last few squads, his first international appearance coming earlier this year.

There is no place in the squad for PNE centre-half Andy Boyle.

The Republic of Ireland are away to Georgia on September 2, then play Serbia at the Aviva Stadium three days later