Darren Randolph highlights his frustrations on Instagram.
Darren Randolph voiced his displeasure on Instagram following Stephen Kenny continually leaving the West Ham goalkeeper out of his squad.
The veteran commented underneath the FAI’s squad update, where the Republic of Ireland manager instead called-up Bohemians goalkeeper James Talbot.
Randolph comments following being left out of the Ireland squad.
The 34-year-old felt hard done by to be overlooked for the friendlies against Belgium and Lithuania, following Mark Travers pulling out of the squad through injury.
“@FAI I haven’t retired yet. I must be too old,” Randolph commented.
Randolph’s remarks drew a mixed response from supporters. Some fans highlighted how important the Wicklow native was under Martin O’Neill and Mick McCarthy’s tenures.
However, going against the grain, other supporters pinpointed that Randolph hasn’t played a minute of first-team football this season – being a third-choice keeper for the Hammers.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CbdDdH3MVUF/
Randolph claims his comments were not bitter.
The former Middlesbrough keeper followed up these comments a few minutes later. Randolph claimed he was only joking and he didn’t mean his comment in a bitter way.
“I’m just bantering ppl, I’m here if ever needed. If not so be it, good luck to the worldie young GKs,” said Randolph.
“Ah lads it’s all a bit of fun, caught loads (fishing emoji). I guess we can’t interact and have fun anymore.”
Randolph’s current career landscape.
The Bray native has not played for his country since November 2020 – Ireland drew 0-0 at home to Bulgaria in the Nations League.
It has not been a favourable time for Randolph with the rise of young goalkeepers Gavin Bazunu, Caoimhin Kelleher, and Mark Travers. Kenny has emphasised his willingness to play young talent with a view to building for the future.
Randolph’s contract at the London stadium expires in 2023. If the goalkeeper wishes to get back into the international set-up – he will need to play next season in order to get recalled by Kenny.
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