No drama around Doherty recall as full focus on Finland says Ireland coach John O'Shea

John O'Shea believes that Matt Doherty will add much-needed experience to the Republic of Ireland squad ahead of this week’s doubleheader against Finland and England.

Ireland were hit with some high-profile – and highly experienced – withdrawals from the squad as the Heimir Hallgrimsson’s charges prepare for the UEFA Nations League fixtures, as captain Seamus Coleman and Shane Duffy have been ruled out.

Veteran defender Matt Doherty was among the replacements drafted in as cover ahead of the two games, and while the Wolves man was a notable absentee from the October games, O’Shea has described his return as "straightforward".

O’Shea revealed that Hallgrimsson did speak to Doherty ahead of the recall, however, he does not envisage any issues ahead of this week’s camp as Ireland look to get back to winning ways and complete the double against Finland.

"The boss would have spoken to Matt and it was straightforward," said O’Shea, speaking at this afternoon’s press conference in Dublin.

"Like I mentioned in terms of that experience that's needed around the group, he's one of the elder statesmen as well and it's important to have that experience of lads who have been around the group for a long time.

"It's getting the balance right and trying the newer players in different positions etc, getting the balance of that right over the next few games and seeing what happens with the draw and planning going forward."

O’Shea empathised with Duffy who has had to withdraw having just been recalled to the national squad.

The Derry defender has been playing well in the heart of the Norwich defence this season, and Hallgrimsson made a point about the qualities that he brings to the squad when the squad was announced last week.

However, Ireland will