Thursday, November 21, 2024

Republic of Ireland v Finland: Hallgrimsson had ‘no doubt’ about calling in Doherty

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Meanwhile, Hallgrimsson believes inviting Robbie Keane to address the squad on Monday was “a good thing”, saying he was unaware of the controversy surrounding the former Republic captain’s visit to the camp.

Keane, his country’s record caps winner and goalscorer, met the current group and handed out caps to players ahead of the two forthcoming Nations League games.

The 44-year-old’s trip attracted some criticism on social media following his decision to remain Maccabi Tel Aviv manager after the escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict following the 7 October 2023 attacks.

He left that role in June, after helping the club secure the league title.

“I wouldn’t know. I am not the best to answer that,” Hallgrimsson initially told reporters.

After the reason was explained to him, he added: “I didn’t know about it.”

Hallgrimsson went on to praise the motivating message the former Premier League star delivered to his charges.

“He had a good speech. The players were asking him questions. I think it is good to connect past players, the legends from the past to the present.

“What was really good was how he, as a goalscorer, a really high-profile player at his time, was talking about the importance of team unity, fighting for each other, team spirit.

“It was probably not what you would think a striker would say, scoring all his goals, but I think it was a really good message to the players.”

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