BURNLEY'S Stephen Ward has been named in the Republic of Ireland's provisional 34-man squad for the Euro 2016 qualifier against Poland.

The crucial qualifying fixture for Martin O'Neil's side takes place at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, March 29.

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Ward hasn't featured for the Clarets since fracturing his ankle in the 1-1 draw with Newcastle on December 2, although he has been back on the substitutes bench for the last three games.

The Republic of Ireland, which also features Darwen-born Anthony Pilkington, will be shortened before the players get together on March 22.