On-loan Gills striker Joe Quigley is celebrating his first Republic of Ireland under-21 call-up.

Although Quigley has yet to score for Gills during his second loan spell from Premier League Bournemouth, his return to fitness following a knee injury has been rewarded.

“It’s a great honour,” said Quigley. “It’s my dad’s side of the family so they’re all very happy with the call-up.

“It came about last pre-season when I was here but it was (the knee) injury that stopped it happening.

“It was a long six and a half months. I had a target in mind and with the help of everyone at Bournemouth and Gills it’s been perfect.”

Now Quigley is keen to keep getting sharper for the Gills.

“I always knew I had it in my mind that I was going to come back sharp,” he said.

“From now, every game I’m getting sharper every time.

“I felt like I had a bit to owe them. I want to do my best for the team. Everyone has been superb since I came in, the way we play gets results and long may it continue.”