Conan Byrne: Players' form means Vera Pauw faces selection dilemma

The strength in depth of a Republic of Ireland squad brimming with talent means manager Vera Pauw faces a number of difficult selection decisions ahead of Thursday's crucial World Cup qualifying clash with Finland at Tallaght Stadium, according to RTÉ pundit Conan Byrne.

Ireland head into the encounter in the knowledge that victory will assure them of a play-off spot as they bid to qualify for a major tournament for the first time.

With a growing number of Ireland stars now plying their trade across the Irish Sea, the battle for a starting spot in the international team has never been so fierce.

Speaking in the RTÉ Soccer Podcast, Byrne said: "Some of the international players have got fantastic summer moves; Chloe Mustaki has gone to Bristol City, Ciara Grant (Hearts) has moved as well, Jessica Ziu has gone to West Ham, Saoirse Noonan has moved to Durham.

"The women’s team are on the up, but the actual players within the squad as well are making significant progress in their own careers.

"It’s the team selection that I think is going to give Vera Pauw the biggest headache.

"With Kyra Carusa out injured, who is going to start up front? Will it be Heather Payne? Amber Barrett (Turbine Potsdam) has got a fantastic move as well. Leanne Kiernan now is playing in the top tier with Liverpool, will she get the start? There are a couple of headaches.

"Lily Agg, will she play instead of Ruesha Littlejohn in midfield? I don’t think so because I think Littlejohn has been absolutely superb in the middle of the park.

"There are these little tactical details that Vera Pauw will need to sort out in the coming days."

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