Photo via BBC Sport

Elding ready for Irish chance after passport delay

Following in the footsteps of his father Anthony, Owen Elding progressed through Sligo Rovers' youth ranks and made his senior bow at age 17 in October 2023. A remarkable 2025 campaign in the League of Ireland Premier Division saw him claim the PFAI Young Player of the Year honour after registering 16 goals and set up five others.

That stellar output prompted Hibernian to secure him this past January on a contract lasting four and a half years. The forward has continued his positive trajectory in Scotland, recording six goals across 22 appearances overall, three of which have arrived during nine matches in the ongoing season.

After joining the Republic of Ireland camp over the summer to gain valuable experience without being eligible to play, Elding has now earned a senior call-up from manager Heimir Hallgrimsson. The squad faces a demanding 12-day run featuring encounters with Kosovo and Austria, separated by consecutive fixtures against Israel.

Although recent fitness issues and competition from attacking peers Troy Parrott, Adam Idah, and Tom Cannon could curb his immediate playing time, Hallgrimsson praised Elding's character, mindset, and evident talent as he completes his return from injury.