Cullen says Ireland have progressed over the last few games

Callum O'Dowda has been called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for this week's World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Luxembourg.

He replaces the injured James Collins.

Any future contract for manager Stephen Kenny won't be decided by the FAI until the end of the campaign.

Midfielder Josh Cullen feels Ireland are progressing ahead of the visit of Ronaldo and Co on Thursday.