Michael Obafemi returns from international duty with Ireland

Swansea City striker Michael Obafemi is set to return from international duty after meeting up with the Republic of Ireland for friendlies against Norway and Malta last week.

The Swans number nine started at the Aviva Stadium to face a Norway side which was without talismanic striker Erling Haaland. Despite being without their top scorer, Norway took the lead just before half-time through a Leo Ostigard header.

A stunning strike by Alan Browne midway through the second period looked to have earned a draw for Obafemi’s Ireland, but Ohi Omoijuanfo scored in the 85th minute to condemn them to a defeat.

It was a frustrating afternoon for all of Ireland’s forward players but in particular Obafemi as they came up against a well-organised, Norwegian team who sat deep and refused space to run into.

The striker was initially named on the bench for the second friendly away in Malta on Sunday but was not included in the final squad.

These were the final two friendlies before Ireland begin their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign in March with a game against France.