Ireland hockey: Eight Ulster players named in squad for Olympic Qualifiers

Johnny McKee is part of a large Ulster contingent in the Ireland squad

Eight Ulster players have been named in the Ireland men's hockey squad for the Olympic qualifying tournament in Valencia from 13-21 January.

Sean Murray, Matty Nelson, Johnny McKee, Tim Cross, Peter McKibbin, Jonny Lynch, Michael Robson and Kyle Marshall are selected in an 18-strong panel.

The competition represents the final opportunity for nations to qualify for next year's Olympics in Paris.

Three of the eight competing countries taking part in Spain can qualify.

Ireland, who are ranked 13 in the world, have been drawn in Pool A alongside second-ranked Belgium, Japan, who sit 15th in the standings, and Ukraine, who are 29th.

Pool B comprises Spain [8], Korea [10], Austria [19] and Egypt [20].

Commenting on the squad announcement, Ireland Men's Hockey Team Head Coach, Mark Tumilty said: "It has been a tough selection process, and I feel for those players that have not been selected."

"This is the most experienced squad selected in recent years and I feel that experience will be vital in Valencia. I look forward to finalising our preparation over the next few weeks, before flying to Valencia for a week's training before the tournament starts. It is a great challenge for this group of players but one I look forward to seeing them embrace."

The Ireland women's hockey team will also compete at the Olympic Qualifiers in Valencia, with the squad set to be announced at the end of December.

Ireland men's squad: David Harte, Jaime Carr, Tim Cross, Lee Cole, Peter McKibbin, Shane O'Donoghue, Kyle Marshall, Luke Madeley, Sean Murray, Michael Robson, Jonny Lynch, Sam Hyland, Nick Page, Daragh Walsh, Johnny McKee, Jeremy Duncan, Ben Walker, Matty Nelson.