Listen, it’s not ideal but it’s doable.
To paraphrase a great man – or to completely and shamelessly plagiarize him – Wales are no great shakes.
Yes, they had a fantastic Euros campaign. Yes, they have Gareth bloody Bale. But they’re there to be beaten and a win for Ireland on Friday would really set them up in an unthinkably good position for the World Cup qualifying campaign.
But it’s going to be tough and it’s a tough fixture anyway. Martin O’Neill has selected a 39-man squad but their options are being ravaged with injury.
- Harry Arter is out. Injured.
- Shane Duffy is out. Injured.
- Ciaran Clark. Injured.
- Wes Hoolahan. Crocked.
- Robbie Brady. Suspended.
Jesus, if he didn’t kick that ball away against Austria and get that needless yellow card…
So it’s a bare bones sort of job and the management team are still sweating on a number of other players’ fitness ahead of Friday. James McCarthy warmed up with the squad and then trained by himself on Wednesday and he’s at least not ruled out yet. In a game of such magnitude, you’d think they’d go with him anyway.
Here’s how Ireland will want to line out against Wales.
Here’s how Ireland will actually line out against Wales.
Darren Randolph
The best ‘keeper and now he’s playing every week for West Ham.
Seamus Coleman
The best player. In the world. Ever.
Richard Keogh
Hard done by of late but injury to Duffy and Clark will surely secure his place in the team.
Separated at birth @RichardKeogh_6 Derby County captain & @Rickontour Ricky Wilson @KaiserChiefs pic.twitter.com/H4vMSUCSep
— john robert scott (@JohnScottie35) March 21, 2017
John O’Shea
Him and Keogh are the default really.
Stephen Ward
Would deserve his spot even with Brady there. He’s been performing well for Ireland and playing every week in the Premier League with Burnley.
James McCarthy
Good player. Has his international mojo back.
David Meyler
Definitely deserves a shot after his performance against Austria but they’ll probably opt for Whelan.
Not all heroes wear starting jerseys https://t.co/7hlOd3aken
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) November 12, 2016
Jeff Hendrick
Obviously.
Jon Walters
Obviously.
James McClean
Obviously.
Shane Long
It could be a long night for him but he can stretch the Welsh and excite the Aviva.
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