With World Cup qualifying matches on the horizon, Ireland's squad is under pressure to perform and secure a place in the finals.
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As Ireland prepares for their World Cup qualifying double-header against Hungary, assistant manager John O’Shea has delivered a compelling message to the players: they stand on the brink of greatness. The stakes are high as O’Shea recalls his memories of 2002, the last time Ireland reached the finals.
He insists this campaign could define the players’ careers.
Significance of the Moment
“The best bit of advice I would give is that these are hugely significant moments in your career,” O’Shea stated. “And not only for yourself but for your family… it could be the pinnacle of players’ careers as well.” Unlike the lengthy 14-month journey that led to the 2002 World Cup, the qualifiers for 2026 will be concluded in just three months.
This condensed timeframe amplifies the urgency for the players.
O’Shea believes the opportunity presented is immense, stating, “If you can be a part of that, some players will be heroes forever.” The pressure is palpable, and the team is expected to leverage their past experiences to forge a successful campaign.
“They have to now take that on board… If they can do that, we know we can have a very, very fruitful campaign,” he emphasized.
Competition and Freshness in the Squad
As the team prepares, competition for places remains fierce. Notably, Callum O’Dowda and Jayson Molumby have been excluded from selection this time, highlighting the squad’s depth. “It’s nice to have that kind of positive freshness in the squad,” O’Shea remarked. “There’s a nucleus there that are battle-hardened now as well. They’ve got to step up and really show they can be the main men in the team.”
The assistant manager also expressed support for Evan Ferguson, who has recently returned from compassionate leave after the loss of his grandfather. Ferguson’s impressive start at Roma has caught O’Shea’s attention. “From the bravery he’s shown in making that move out to Italy and the start he’s had, it tells you a lot about the man,” he noted. “We just want any striker to lead the line, be a nuisance for the defense, and be a threat.”
Facing Hungary: A Challenging Test
Despite Hungary’s inconsistent form in recent matches, the Irish camp remains cautious. O’Shea acknowledged the talent within the Hungarian squad: “You appreciate the quality they have… We know it’ll be a good test, but we also know we’ll be able to cause them lots of issues and problems too.”
For O’Shea, the importance of this week transcends football; it is about building a legacy. “Your family, your friends, your old coaches, but also what the public and the fans are craving — that’s what’s on the line,” he asserted. “These are the moments that could live with you forever.” O’Shea’s words resonate with the squad as they prepare to make their mark on this pivotal stage.
