Bittersweet international call-up for Blackpool's Roache

Blackpool striker Rowan Rowan has been called up to the Republic of Ireland's U19 squad for their upcoming European Championship qualifiers.

Blackpool striker Roache named in Ireland U19 squad

While this is undoubtedly good news for Roache, it means the 18-year-old striker will be forced to miss the first leg of Blackpool’s FA Youth Cup semi-final clash against Arsenal.

Roache will be a big miss for the Seasiders on Tuesday

Ireland travel to Portugal this coming week to play three games against Slovakia, Kosovo and the hosts Portugal respectively.

Roache made his senior debut in Blackpool's 0-0 draw against Bristol Rovers in January

Only the group winners advance to the 2018 European U19 Championships, which are held in Finland this summer.

Ireland will take on Slovakia on Wednesday, the day after Blackpool are due to host Arsenal’s youth team at Bloomfield Road.

They will then take on Kosovo on Saturday before finishing off the group stage against Portugal the following Tuesday.

It should mean Roache will be available for the return leg against Arsenal, which is due to be played at The Emirates on Monday, April 16.

This is invaluable experience for Roache, who continues to play a year ahead having already featured for Ireland’s U19 squad last month.

Roache scored a stoppage-time winner to seal Blackpool's place in the last four of the FA Youth Cup, netting with a penalty in the Seasiders' dramatic 3-2 win against Blackburn Rovers.