Ireland to play Israel after squad vote at hotel in Hungary

Ireland will go ahead with Sunday’s UEFA Nations League match against Israel after a majority of the squad voted to fulfil the fixture at the team hotel in Hungary.

Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu was the first player to formally make himself unavailable, and a number of other players voted against proceeding. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) said a “significant majority” voted in favour, leading to the decision to play.

The pre‑match press conference was delayed by more than five hours while discussions took place among players, staff and executives. When it finally took place, manager Heimir Hallgrímsson was accompanied by chief executive David Courell and director of football John Martin.

Players have requested that they not take part in any media duties for the remaining three games of the international window, and they will also forgo the usual pre‑match rituals such as handshakes, pennant exchange and team photographs. The squad intends to wear black armbands and to make a charitable contribution.

Courell said a player had expressed discomfort with the situation, prompting a four‑hour deliberation before the vote. Hallgrímsson added that he had spoken individually with each outfield player about their willingness to play.

Further discussions are scheduled after training, with the FAI indicating that the situation remains “unique” and will be reviewed tonight and tomorrow.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Beachbumology . / Pexels.