Ireland fear Katie McCabe will have to make untimely Oz trip

Republic of Ireland head coach Eileen Gleeson says she has factored into her plans the possibility that captain Katie McCabe will travel to Australia with Arsenal for an end-of-season friendly the week before two crucial Euro 2025 qualifiers.

The Gunners will take on an A League Allstars selection at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on Friday 24 May. Ireland welcome Sweden to the Aviva Stadium just seven days later, before the return fixture on Swedish soil the following Tuesday.

McCabe could play for Arsenal and then fly back in time to prep for those huge international fixtures, but the jet lag and toll of the journey would massively disrupt her build-up.

England boss Sarina Wiegman has admitted she was "surprised" by Arsenal's decision to travel Down Under six days after the final match of the Women's Super League and said she's had conversations with the London club with regards to the involvement of the Lionesses players.

Gleeson has yet to open dialogue with Arsenal, but admitted Ireland have considered the possibility that McCabe will be making the trip.

"We haven't spoken to Arsenal yet," said Gleeson. "We have it obviously factored into our planning processes if she is in (the squad). But we have to wait and have that conversation with the club whether she will or won’t be involved in that.

"I mean, it’s far from ideal. Sarina Wiegman and other coaches have mentioned it in their squad announcements and public conversations.

"It’s directly post the end of the season, straight into a really long travel trip with a really quick turnaround directly before a qualifier. So yeah, it poses a real challenge for the player and for us as well. If it happens, we will have to manage it and best prepare for it if she is involved."

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