Former Letterkenny Rovers defender Abankwah earns first senior Ireland call-up

James Abankwah has been named in the Republic of Ireland squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Bulgaria later this month. 

The Watford defender receives his first senior international call-up, having impressed since his move to Vicarage Road from Udinese.  

His inclusion marks a significant milestone — not just for himself, but also for Donegal football, as he becomes the first player to have represented Letterkenny Rovers to receive a senior international call-up. 

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Abankwah’s journey to this level has been remarkable. Born in Waterford, he moved to Letterkenny in 2011, where he played for Letterkenny Rovers while his father, Isaac, worked as a minister in the town.  

Reflecting on those early days, his father recalled how James held fond memories of his time with the club, where he was warmly welcomed and developed his love for the game. 

From Donegal, Abankwah’s path took him to Longford, where he played for Melview FC before representing the county in the prestigious Kennedy Cup.  

His talent soon earned him a move to Dublin’s Cherry Orchard, and by 2019, he had signed for St Patrick’s Athletic.  

His performances at Richmond Park were so impressive that Udinese secured his signature ahead of the 2022/23 Serie A campaign. 

During his time in Italy, Abankwah made his Serie A debut in April 2023 against Bologna before earning his first start against Juventus on the final day of that season. Seeking more first-team experience, he spent the first half of the 2023/24 season on loan at Charlton Athletic in League One before making the switch to Watford in January. 

Now, with his first senior international call-up secured, the former Letterkenny Rovers defender will be hoping to make his mark on the national stage. 

Republic of Ireland squad: 

Goalkeepers: Caoimhín Kelleher (Liverpool), Mark Travers (Middlesbrough, on loan from AFC Bournemouth), Gavin Bazunu (Standard Liége, on loan from Southampton). 

Defenders: Jake O'Brien (Everton), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Dara O'Shea (Ipswich Town), Jimmy Dunne (Queens Park Rangers), James Abankwah (Watford, on loan from Udinese), Robbie Brady (Preston North End), Callum O'Dowda (Cardiff City). 

Midfielders: Josh Cullen (Burnley), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Jack Taylor (Ipswich Town), Mark Sykes (Bristol City), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Finn Azaz (Middlesbrough) 

Attackers: Evan Ferguson (West Ham United, on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion), Adam Idah (Celtic), Troy Parrott (AZ Alkmaar), Sinclair Armstrong (Bristol City), Mikey Johnston (West Bromwich Albion), Rocco Vata (Watford).