John O’Shea Leads Ireland Squad Amid FAI Manager Search
Ireland interim head coach John O’Shea has taken the reins amidst the ongoing search for a permanent manager by the FAI. Responding to comments made by Damien Duff, O’Shea insists he does not feel abandoned by the association, as he focuses on the upcoming clashes with Hungary and Portugal.
With the squad gathering in Dublin, O’Shea confirmed the inclusion of Tom Cannon, who earned his first senior call-up after a year of reflection on his international future. Lyon centre-back Jake O’Brien will also make his senior debut next month, with Leicester City winger Kasey McAteer on the brink of a call-up.
Duff criticized the FAI’s process for appointing Stephen Kenny’s successor, which has now extended beyond six months. However, O’Shea remains dedicated to the task at hand, steering the team through the friendly double-header.
While the possibility of O’Shea securing the permanent position has not been ruled out by interim FAI CEO David Courell, the focus for now remains on the upcoming fixtures. O’Shea emphasized that results in the upcoming games will play a crucial role in determining his future with the team.
As the squad shapes up for the June matches against Hungary and Portugal, O’Shea remains committed to the task at hand, aiming to secure positive results that could bolster his chances for the full-time role. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the Irish team is gearing up for challenging encounters against formidable opponents.
The squad announcement saw notable exclusions, including Alan Browne, Festy Ebosele, and Ryan Manning, each with their own reasons for missing out on the selection. O’Shea expressed admiration for the players and their respective situations, highlighting the importance of their club commitments in shaping their international prospects.
With a blend of seasoned campaigners and rising stars, O’Shea is focused on assembling a competitive squad that can deliver results on the international stage. The upcoming fixtures against Hungary and Portugal present an opportunity for the Irish team to showcase their abilities and set the tone for future success on the field.
