'Perfect time' for Vale - but who is new Republic of Ireland call-up?
With Fifa having confirmed his allegiance switch to the Republic of Ireland last week, his ascension to the squad has happened swiftly. "It's really exciting, I still really feel that connection to Ireland, so it was a no-brainer for me really," he told QPR in an in-house interview. Vale captained England to European Under-19 glory in 2022 Vale spent time in the Fulham and Chelsea academies before signing a professional deal with the Blues in September 2020.
In December 2021, he made his Chelsea debut under Thomas Tuchel, starting his side's EFL Cup quarter-final win away to Brentford. Vale went on to make another four cup appearances for Chelsea in the 2021-22 season before he linked up with the England squad for the 2022 European Under-19 Championship. He starred at the tournament in Slovakia, captaining the Young Lions to their 11th title and earning a place in the team of the tournament.
Having spent time on loan away from Chelsea at Hull, Vale also featured for England at the Under-20 World Cup in 2023 before joining Bristol Rovers on loan. His stint at Memorial Stadium proved more fruitful as he scored three goals in 47 appearances. Following his return to Chelsea, he featured twice in the Uefa Conference League under Enzo Maresca before joining QPR in February 2025.
While a back injury delayed his QPR debut until August, he has clearly left enough of an impression on Hallgrimsson during his 23 Championship appearances this season. Football journalist David McIntyre, who has covered QPR for 26 years, says Vale's versatility and ability on the ball could make him a great fit for the Republic of Ireland. "He's left-footed, he can play on the wing, left-back, centre midfield or as a 10 behind the striker," said McIntyre.
"Recently, he's been playing on the right so he can cut in on his left foot. He's very good at that. Most of his best moments for QPR have come from that position.