Chelsea midfielder Conor Clifford has been called up to the Irish national team ahead of a pair of vital World Cup qualifiers. The Irish midfield has been hammered by injuries recently, and Clifford appears to be next in line to fill out the squad.

Ireland have a pair of qualifiers include a home game against Germany on Friday followed by a trip to the Faroe Islands. Ireland's games are as follows:

• October 12, 2012 vs. Germany
• October 16, 2012 @ Faroe Islands

In addition to Clifford, Ciaran Clark, David Meyler and Robbie Brady have joined the Irish team. Ireland are likely to play with 3 central midfielders against the Germans, and Keith Andrews, Keith Fahey and James McCarthy would appear to be in line for starts. There is an outside chance that Clifford sees action, but I wouldn't hold your breath expecting it. Still, the experience will be good for the youngster, and it's always nice to see Chelsea players being recognized by their countries.