Gillingham’s loan defender Tom O’Connor has been called up for the Republic of Ireland under-21 squad.

It the first time the Southampton youngster has been selected by his country and Gills boss Steve Evans – who signed him on a loan deal at the end of July – believes he’s destined for the top.

Evans, who has worked with numerous youngsters who have made it big, said: “When I met him and the boy (Alfie) Jones (also on loan from Southampton) I said, if you want to be like a Lewis Cook (ex-Leeds youngster at Bournemouth), a Sam Byram or Charlie Taylor (both Leeds), then come here and we will try and develop you.

“He’s going with the under-21s but it won’t be surprising if he is in the full squad (soon). He is a top, top player and he will play in the Premier League in time. Maybe not next season, but he will play in the Premier
League.”

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O’Connor has been named in a 22-man squad for matches away to Armenia on Thursday and then at home to Sweden on Tuesday, November 19.

It means the 20-year-will miss Gillingham’s EFL Trophy match against Tottenham under-21s on Tuesday, the League 1 match at home to Lincoln on Saturday and the FA Cup first round replay against Sunderland.

O’Connor has made 14 appearances for the Gills this season since joining on loan from Premier League Saints.

He scored his first professional goal in the 1-1 draw at Bristol Rovers in September.

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