John O'Shea: Comments around Irish players 'too derogatory'

Amid much negativity surrounding the Republic of Ireland squad, this after not qualifying for a major tournament since Euro 2016 and a somewhat underwhelming start to the Heimir Hallgrimsson reign, assistant head coach John O'Shea is calling for a bit more positivity when it comes to assessing the national team.

We are, perhaps, now at a juncture where the only way is up. A Nations League campaign has so far seen two defeats for the Irish. The loss to England was expected, with the Euro 2024 finalists more than comfortable in seeing out the win after netting two early goals.

The opening 45 minutes against Greece three days later saw a bit more intent from Hallgrimsson's side, but on the resumption the Greeks showed their nous to break the deadlock and then seal the deal late on. Another 2-0 loss to pick over. Much grim reading afterwards.

When asked specifically about the perceived lack of options in the Irish midfield, O'Shea responded by staunchly defending the group, insisting that Ireland have "really good players" and called on the public to back the squad more.

"We need to get away from that negative aspect of positions within the team and the squad.

"The dedication and the sacrifice that every player and the levels that these players are playing at I think is sometimes forgotten about.

"They are really good players and are playing at a really good level. I think we're too derogatory towards the players because they are really good players playing at a really good level.

"They are showing dedication and want to come and play for Ireland. I think we should be getting behind them a bit more."

"The dedication and the sacrifice that every player and the levels that these players are playing at I think is sometimes forgotten