Daryl Murphy admitted he was surprised but delighted to be included in the Republic of Ireland squad for their friendly against Serbia on March 5. 

The Town striker, who has been capped nine times, has not featured for the Irish for six years but told the Club website that he has never given up hope of a return to the international scene. 

“It was a bit of a surprise, the call-up but a nice one,” said Daryl, speaking to www.itfc.co.uk.

“I didn’t have an inkling that I would be included. I finished training and noticed there were a few missed calls on my phone and then someone told me I was in the squad. 

“I knew Martin O’Neill [Republic boss] was at the game against Blackpool on Saturday but I didn’t think anymore about it, you just get on with the game. 

“Obviously I’m delighted to be called up. It’s a great honour to play for your country and although I haven't played for Ireland for six years, I’ve always felt that if I was playing well enough then that opportunity might come along again.”

Paul Green has also been included for the friendly, with the Republic naming a provisional squad of 29.