Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.
Already a member?
Log in
Republic of Ireland have named Jimmy Dunne as a goalkeeper for the country’s contentious Nations League clash with Israel after Gavin Bazunu withdrew.
Bazunu has refused to participate in the match following a lengthy Ireland meeting concerning the team’s stance, but confirmed his absence was a move “against the atrocities in the region.”
The 24-year-old underlined the decision was not in opposition to Israeli or Jewish people, but with Heimir Hallgrímsson down to two goalkeepers, Caoimhín Kelleher and Max O’Leary, a third shot-stopper is required for administrative purposes by Uefa.
And The Boys in Green have turned to Dunne, with the defender not involved in Thursday’s 1-0 defeat in Kosovo.
The 23-man squad has been named with Dunne the only change, with Uefa listing the 28-year-old alongside Kelleher and O’Leary.
After making a decision that has rocked Irish football, Bazunu wrote on Instagram: “Representing my country means everything to me. I have the utmost respect for every single one of my team mates, the manager, his staff and the Irish people.
“However I have reached a decision that I have not taken lightly. I am a man of strong faith and try my best to be a person of character and principle therefore I feel it would be wrong to participate in the upcoming fixtures against Israel.
“My decision is based purely upon my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong. It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition of the Israeli people of the Jewish community but against the atrocities in the region.
“There are few times where you get a chance in life to stand up for something bigger and I strongly believe that this is one of them.”
Some of Bazunu’s team-mates considered joining him in a boycott as doubts surrounded Sunday’s opening fixture in Debrecen, with training and a planned press conference both delayed on Saturday.
However, it was confirmed on Saturday that the match will go ahead following a vote among the squad. Former Ireland manager Brian Kerr said that 14 Ireland players voted in favour compared to eight against.
“The Football Association of Ireland confirms that the 2026-27 Uefa Nations League fixtures against Israel will be fulfilled,” a statement read.
“The Association made this decision following consultation with the Republic of Ireland players who shared different views and a majority expressed that the fixtures should be played.
“The Association respects the views of all players involved and appreciates the level of sensitivity concerning these fixtures.”
