Missing Israel games 'stressful' for captain Collins

What the report says

Republic of Ireland captain Nathan Collins has spoken about the strain of missing his side’s recent Nations League matches against Israel while recovering from a calf injury. In comments published by BBC Sport Football, Collins said watching from outside the squad made him feel as though he had left his teammates “on their own” during a difficult international window.

Collins missed all four games in the September and October block, including Ireland’s 3-0 win over Israel in Debrecen and the follow-up 1-1 draw with Israel in Serbia. Those fixtures were played against the backdrop of protests over the Israel-Gaza war, and the first meeting with Israel had been uncertain before kickoff after a delayed training session and a player vote on whether to take part. Collins said following the situation online was stressful and left him frustrated at not being able to support the team in person.

The Brentford defender said the group has since drawn closer and is now focused on the football. Ireland, who are third in Group B3, face Austria away and Kosovo at home in their final two matches, with a slim chance of finishing top and earning promotion to League A. Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson also said Seamus Coleman will not be considered for selection against Austria, while several other players are one yellow card from suspension.