Nine Royals stars will be representing their respective countries during the international break, as Brian McDermott's squad prepares for a weekend off from Championship action.

New signing Zurab Khizanishvili has flown straight out to join the Georgian squad as they train for clashes with Greece and Israel, whilst Brynjar Gunnarsson faces a pair of Scandinavian derbies as Iceland take on Norway and Denmark.

Simon Church faces a tough test with the Wales squad on Friday evening, as John Toshack's men travel for a qualifier in Montenegro - whilst Shane Long has been included in the Republic of Ireland squad for their games with Armenia and Andorra.

Although not in competitive action Adam Federici will be hoping to stake a claim for the Australian number one jersey, as the Socceroos travel to Switzerland and Poland for friendly matches.

Away from the full international scene there are plenty of young Royals looking to impress in their respective age groups - in particular Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor who will take part in Euro under 21 qualifiers against Italy and Hungary.

Mikkel Andersen is currently first choice stopper for Denmark under 21s and should continue in that berth for a friendly match up with Lithuania.

Finally promising defenders Angus McDonald and Jack Mills played 90 minutes in England under 19s 2-0 win over Slovakia at Gresty Road on Thursday evening.

Fellow youth team starlet Carl McHugh has been selected for Ireland's under 18s for the Jezek international tournament in the Czech Republic.