Irish footballers in the 2025/26 Premier League season: A small but mighty contingent

por Wosti -

The 2025/26 Premier League season has brought both promise and pressure for the Republic of Ireland’s footballers. While the Irish presence in England’s top division has slimmed in recent years, the players who remain continue to make their mark in meaningful ways.

Whether it’s Brentford’s commanding defensive duo or Burnley’s determined Irish core fighting for survival, there’s plenty for Irish supporters to cheer for. And for fans following the action week by week, checking out a free bet sign up promotion from bookmakers can make watching their countrymen even more exciting.

Caoimhín Kelleher: Ireland’s steady hands at Brentford

Leading the Irish contingent this season is Caoimhín Kelleher, who has finally stepped into the spotlight as a Premier League number one. Now between the posts for Brentford, the Cork-born keeper has featured in eight matches, registering three clean sheets and earning a Man of the Match award.

Kelleher’s rise from Liverpool’s dependable understudy to Brentford’s mainstay has been seamless. His distribution and calm presence have brought reassurance to Thomas Frank’s side, while his leadership from the back has been key in organising a new-look defence. For the Republic of Ireland, his consistency offers hope of stability in goal for years to come.

Nathan Collins: Commanding the Brentford backline

Alongside Kelleher at Brentford is fellow Irish international Nathan Collins, a central figure in the club’s defensive structure. The 24-year-old has made eight appearances so far, scoring once and helping the team to two clean sheets. His imposing presence and ability to read the game make him one of Ireland’s most complete defenders.

Collins has shown leadership well beyond his years, often organising his backline and leading by example in tough matches. His development from a promising youngster at Stoke and Wolves to a Premier League regular shows his growing maturity. Brentford’s resilience this season has owed much to the understanding between Collins and Kelleher, a partnership that bodes well for both club and country.

Dara O’Shea and Josh Cullen: Burnley’s Irish backbone in a relegation battle

While Brentford’s Irish duo are pushing for mid-table respectability, the focus at Burnley is very different: survival. And central to that fight are Dara O’Shea and Josh Cullen, two of Scott Parker’s most trusted and hard-working players.

Dara O’Shea, the 26-year-old centre-back, has been a vital cog in Burnley’s defensive efforts this season. Across eight matches, he’s contributed one assist and an impressive 25 clearances, often standing tall under waves of pressure from Premier League forwards. His defensive reading and bravery have been essential for a team still adjusting to the top-flight tempo.

O’Shea’s leadership qualities, honed through his time as Ireland’s captain at youth levels, have translated well into a senior role. For Burnley, his partnership with the club’s other defenders will be crucial in their bid to stay up.

In midfield, Josh Cullen continues to be the heartbeat of Burnley’s play. The Dubliner’s tidy control, composure, and impressive 87% pass completion rate have made him the side’s most reliable distributor. His ability to break up play and keep possession under pressure gives Burnley the stability they need to compete against technically superior opponents. With one assist already this season, Cullen’s influence extends beyond ball retention, he’s also key in transitioning defence into attack.

If Burnley are to secure another year of Premier League football, both O’Shea and Cullen will need to maintain their consistency and leadership. For Irish supporters, watching these two battle each week provides a strong sense of national pride, and perhaps even the shock of survival come May.