O'Shea proud of how team-mates handled Israel games

What the report says

Republic of Ireland defender Dara O’Shea says he is proud of how the squad handled a difficult October international window, which included Nations League matches against Israel played on neutral ground. Speaking ahead of the team’s next fixtures, O’Shea described the period as testing for the players and staff, with Ireland also suffering a defeat in Kosovo and a draw at home to Austria in the same run of games.

O’Shea filled in as captain while regular skipper Nathan Collins was injured. He said the group helped him through the pressure of leading the side, and praised the leadership within the squad. The most difficult episode came before the first Israel match in Hungary, when a training session was delayed as players voted on whether to play amid protests linked to the Israel-Gaza war. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu made himself unavailable for that game. Ireland went on to win 3-0, then drew 1-1 in the return meeting in Serbia, although O’Shea missed the second match for personal reasons.

Collins is now back in the squad for Ireland’s upcoming trip to Austria and their final League B3 game against Kosovo. Seamus Coleman is also involved in a hybrid role despite not being named in the official 24-man squad. O’Shea said Ireland are stronger with both players around, while noting Coleman’s experience remains valuable as the team prepares to finish the campaign.