Evan Ferguson 'very positive' ahead of Dutch game says Stephen Kenny

Chiedozie Ogbene was emphatically ruled out of the Netherlands clash at the pre-match press conference, and while it is an obvious blow to Ireland's chances, the manager must have known that he had little chance of playing in Amsterdam.

"Hasn’t trained, hasn’t put his foot in a boot properly," said Stephen Kenny, when confirming his absence on the eve of the game; no doubt, the manager has been plotting a gameplan that has not included the energetic and exciting Luton Town frontman.

Evan Ferguson, on the other hand, was perhaps more concerning to the manager as he was another on the going-for-a-scan list at the start of the week, alongside Jamie McGrath, Ogbene and Will Smallbone, who has also been ruled out.

But the manager could breathe a sigh of relief as he confirmed that the young Brighton striker was available to play against the Dutch, who are looking for a victory to confirm their place at Euro 2024.

The teenage attacker missed that vital game against Ronald Koeman’s side at the Aviva Stadium, and while he will bring the expectation that is growing with almost every game, the manager, once again, urged caution about putting too much pressure on Ferguson to perform.

"It’s important not to expect too much," said Kenny, when asked about the growing reputation of the young striker.

"We’ve to be cognisant of his age. He’s made the breakthrough and played international football at 18. He’s just turned 19. He’s got an all-round game and a few goals already for Ireland.

"He was in this stadium last week of course (playing for Brighton against Ajax).

"He’s been very positive this week, very positive. He could easily have pulled out of the squad or opted to pull out having not been available for his club last week.

"He’s here,