The performance of Festy Ebosele was praised after he made his first start for the Republic of Ireland in their 1-0 win over Finland last night but he may be a doubt to face England on Sunday.

The on-loan Watford wing-back was promoted to the starting XI for the Nations League clash as boss Heimir Hallgrímsson made four changes from last month’s defeat to Greece, with ten players ruled out of the squad through injury.

The 22-year-old played on the right side of midfielder and was given a rating of seven by RTE in their player ratings.

The Irish broadcaster commented: “The star discovery of the Hallgrimsson era so far, he followed up his breakthrough performance against the Finns by giving them another difficult night.

“His ability to run at players is not common within the squad and it’s clear he has added composure to his game from the Under-21 days.

“Strong and physical, his place in the team is secured for the next window.

“He may not feature on Sunday against England after hobbling off with injury in the 71st minute.”

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Ireland will now be hoping Ebsoele, who is suspended for Watford’s next game at Plymouth Argyle after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season in the 1-0 win against Oxford United, is fit for their final Nations League qualifier at Wembley on Sunday.

Brighton’s Evan Ferguson secured the victory with a goal just before half-time but the Irish rode their luck, with Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher producing a superb penalty save while the Finns also hit the woodwork twice.

The result means Ireland will finish third in Group B2 and face a play-off next year.

Meanwhile, Rocco Vata played 78 minutes as Ireland’s Under-21 side were beaten 2-0 by Sweden in a friendly in Spain.

The Irish FA’s website described Vata as “the main attacking outlet” for the side, reporting that he stung the Swedish goalkeeper’s palms after creating an effort for himself in the first half.

The two nations will meet again in Marbella on Sunday.