It’s do or die for Ireland.
One game stands between Martin O’Neill’s charges and the second round of Euro 2016. The brief is simple: win.
A win ensures qualification for Ireland out of Group E and play France on Sunday. Anything less ensures an early flight home for the boys in green.
In their way stand Italy. They might’ve already topped their group but even their subs are coming down with medals and experience.
And Ireland don’t win many matches at major tournaments.
But Martin O’Neill has gone for broke in this crunch clash in Lille. Out go John O’Shea, Ciaran Clark, Glenn Whelan and Wes Hoolahan.
In come Shane Duffy, Richard Keogh, James McClean and Daryl Murphy.
It’s a bold selection from O’Neill but there’s plenty of attacking vigour with Shane Long partnered up front by Daryl Murphy with support coming from McClean and Robbie Brady.
BREAKING: Martin O'Neill has named his starting team to face Italy! #COYBIG #EURO2016 pic.twitter.com/Ng1HFzXUpm
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) June 22, 2016
Will it be enough to beat the Italians? Fingers crossed.
