Jack Moylan's Sensational Form Makes Him Perfect Candidate for Ireland's May Camp
Nine goals since the calendar flipped to 2025. For Jack Moylan, the Lincoln City striker, the new year has been nothing short of spectacular. Former Irish international Keith Treacy believes Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson would be making a mistake if he doesn't give the Dublin-born forward a serious look during the upcoming May training camp.
The 23-year-old, who developed through Shelbourne's academy before crossing the Irish Sea, has wrapped up his League One campaign with impressive numbers: 10 goals and four assists while helping Lincoln City secure promotion to the Championship. With his club season ending on May 2nd, Moylan's availability aligns perfectly with Ireland's training camp in Murcia, Spain, ahead of a friendly match against Grenada on May 16th.
Perfect Timing, Perfect Form
Hallgrimsson has already indicated that League of Ireland players won't be available for the camp due to scheduling conflicts with the domestic season. Senior players competing in European competitions and those involved in Championship playoff battles are also ruled out. Moylan falls into none of these categories. His season is complete, and he's riding the best form of his professional career.
Speaking on the RTÉ Soccer Podcast, Treacy made a straightforward case: "He's had a brilliant season, ten goals and four assists. This is the time to pat them on the back and say, 'We are having a look at you, you are in our plans.'"
Nobody's suggesting Moylan should be Ireland's starting striker tomorrow. The point is more measured—this camp exists specifically to expand the talent pool, and a player in red-hot form deserves the opportunity to experience the international setup. Next season, he'll be testing himself in the Championship. The progression continues.
Other Rising Stars Worth Considering
Former Irish goalkeeper Barry Murphy contributed additional names to the discussion. Sheffield Wednesday's left wing-back Tayo Adaramola received particular praise for his aggressive playing style and tactical compatibility with Ireland's system. Rocco Vata and Andy Moran—who found the net against Leicester City last weekend—were also highlighted as players who could contribute during these low-pressure international windows.
Murphy's strongest endorsement, however, went to Jaden Umeh, the Benfica winger and Ireland youth international. "I think we're too conservative about these games," Murphy stated, suggesting that friendlies should address future squad needs rather than simply running through established routines.
- Jack Moylan — Lincoln City forward, 10 goals and 4 assists, promotion to Championship secured
- Tayo Adaramola — Sheffield Wednesday left wing-back, described as ideally suited for Ireland's tactical approach
- Jaden Umeh — Benfica winger, Ireland youth international
- Andy Moran / Rocco Vata — emerging options with recent positive performances
The real objective lies ahead with Ireland's Nations League fixtures in the autumn, and Hallgrimsson needs to build squad depth. If Chiedozie Ogbene becomes unavailable—Murphy's specific example—who fills that void? These May friendlies represent the ideal opportunity to answer those questions, not when competitive points are on the line.
"We need to have ready-made replacements to come in, who have had a bit of game exposure," Murphy emphasized. It's a compelling argument that's difficult to counter.