Republic of Ireland’s Gavin Bazunu boycotts Israel match ‘as a person of principle’

• Bolton goalkeeper issues statement after withdrawal

• Ireland players will wear black armbands in match

The Republic of Ireland will fulfil their fixture against Israel in Hungary on Sunday night, but only after lengthy deliberations between the players resulted in a “significant majority” voting to play. The Bolton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, however, will not be involved, after pulling out in protest.

After a week in which the Irish team and officials have come under increasing domestic pressure to boycott the match due to Israel’s military actions in Gaza, training was delayed by five hours on Saturday while the squad discussed whether to go ahead.

Continue reading…

Source: Guardian Sport