Stand-in Ireland manager believes veteran centre-back deserves 'support' after drink-driving charge
The Derry man (32) was named in O'Shea's 26-man squad for a friendly double-header at home to Hungary next Tuesday and away to Portugal a week later.
There is a first senior call-up for U-21 cap Tom Cannon, who is back in the Irish fold after taking time out to make a decision on his international future, a recall for veteran Enda Stevens, while Festy Ebosele, Alan Browne and the uncapped Kasey McAteer were left out due to injuries and contract issues.
Duffy – who has capped his country 60 times – captained Ireland in Stephen Kenny's final match last year but missed the marching period.
There was a question mark over his participation in this camp after the drunk driving charges.
Norfolk Police confirmed Duffy was charged with driving while unfit by drink on May 6. He will appear at Norwich Magistrates' Court on July 2.
“People make mistakes, but they also have the opportunity to right themselves,” O'Shea said when asked if he felt uncomfortable picking Duffy.
He also said there was no pressure from the FAI regarding the issue.
“I spoke to Shane to see where he stood in terms of the end of the season. He was unequivocal in terms of his passion for playing and being involved for Ireland.
“It's clearly not good [the court case], but we also have to support people. He has been a big player for Ireland and it is also important to support people. He will receive that support from Ireland.”
Although the FAI have yet to make any commitments to O'Shea after this second spell in caretaker capacity, he is happy to have U-21 cap Cannon involved.
The squad will also be refreshed when U-21 players Bosun Lawal, Andy Moran and Josh Keeley come to train on Friday ahead of their own underage camp in Croatia a week later.
Cannon qualified through an Irish grandparent and scored on his debut in green during an U-21 friendly in Cork in March last year – but he subsequently withdrew from Ireland as he wanted time to assess his options.
He has since moved from Everton to Leicester City on a £7million contract and helped the Foxes win promotion to the Premier League.
He would like to play for Ireland again.
“He is looking forward and excited to take part in these two competitions. I'm sure he will be committed,” O'Shea said, adding that Cannon's clubmate McAteer was also committed to the cause but asked for an apology due to a series of injuries.
'I tried to get him [Cannon] for the March window. When I see Tom in the U-21s, I know what a talent he is, what kind of striker he is. I talked to him and his agent and said, 'Take your time. When you're ready, please contact me.”
“Luckily that happened and we were able to have a conversation.
“He was with his family when I spoke to him and they were very proud and happy to be able to represent the Republic of Ireland.”