New York City FC defender Kevin O'Toole has made a remarkable journey from the second round of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft to the Ireland national team. In a revelation which few fans of new york online casinos could have seen coming a few years ago, the New Jersey-born star is now heading to join up with Heimir Hallgrímsson's squad.
The 26-year-old has been called up for a pair of World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Hungary, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Despite the ongoing MLS Cup Playoffs, the November international break is fast approaching. During this window, NYCFC's Kevin O'Toole has been selected for national-team duty by the Republic of Ireland. This is O'Toole's first call-up, a testament to his impressive performances in the MLS.
Ireland are currently competing in UEFA Group F for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team sit in 3rd place in their group, but with the right results, they could potentially secure a playoff spot, keeping their World Cup dreams alive.
If they qualify, O'Toole could have the chance to go from no international football experience to playing at a World Cup in his own United States within the space of 8 months.
O'Toole's first camp with the national team is far from low-stakes. He could potentially make his full international debut against Portugal's star-studded squad, including the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo. This opportunity comes from Heimir Hallgrímsson, the Ireland national team coach, who named a 25-player squad that includes six players from the English Premier League.
O'Toole's inclusion comes as a replacement for Ryan Manning of Southampton, who is unavailable for the Portugal match due to suspension. This represents a significant step up for the New Jersey native and Princeton University alum.
O'Toole's call-up is the realisation of a dream he hinted at in a 2024 interview with the Irish Star. He expressed his pride and willingness to represent Ireland internationally, given the opportunity. His eligibility to represent Ireland comes from his Dublin-born grandfather.
The O'Toole family is no stranger to football in Ireland. Kevin's sister, Jillian, plays in the midfield for Treaty United FC, a team in the League of Ireland Women's Premier Division.
O'Toole's journey to the national team has been nothing short of meteoric. After leaving Princeton University, he was drafted as a forward by NYCFC in the second round of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. He signed his first professional contract in March 2022, and by the end of the season, he had become a surprise starter under Nick Cushing.
Over the next three seasons, O'Toole remained a key part of the NYCFC defence. He has made 98 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and picking up four assists. His consistent performances in the MLS have now earned him a first-team Ireland call-up, marking another milestone in his impressive career.
Kevin O'Toole's career trajectory from the MLS SuperDraft to the Ireland national team is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring football players and sports fans alike.
