But with only one more game now scheduled before the squad departs for France, a home clash with Holland on May 27 – although there remains the possibility that another could be squeezed into the schedule – time is running out fast for latecomers to make an impression, as winger James McClean did four years ago.
Advertisement
The attacking midfielder’s injury probably made it easier for Martin O’Neill to favour the likes of Jonathan Hayes and Stephen Gleeson who could make their Republic of Ireland debuts in this global window.
“If security is tightened, as it probably will be, then maybe the players might have to stay closer to the hotel (when they are not playing)”, the 64-year-old added.
I am so pleased for all the players.
“In order to compete, you have to actually be successful but does that mean that just because they go on and win the league, does a smaller nation go on and win the European Championship?”
“If I’d had a run of games before the main call up it could have been better for me”. “There are parts of the game that definitely need honing, there’s no doubt about that but we’ll see”.
The Boys In Green take on Switzerland in a Good Friday friendly at the Aviva.
There will be a start in one of the games for Newcastle goalkeeper Rob Elliot, but skipper Robbie Keane and Cardiff midfielder Anthony Pilkington will miss the game against the Swiss with minor injuries.
Cue a murmur of incredulous laughter and a look from John O’Shea that said ‘what did he just say?’ O’Neill was then told of Keane’s admission that his family often enjoyed when he was away from long periods and, again, the Derry native didn’t disappoint.
“If they’re really attractive they’re very, very welcome”.
Advertisement
“There’s talk about matches being played behind closed doors, but the safety of people is of paramount importance and anything that is agreed upon, we will fall in line”.
