If the players have this as motivation, then we’ll be ok.
Ireland are only a few days away from their crucial World Cup qualifier against Wales at the Aviva Stadium.
It promises to be one of the most difficult challenges which this Irish side has faced in recent times when you consider both the quality which Chris Coleman’s side possess and the raft of injuries which is plaguing our boys in green.
Ireland are without a number of key players for Friday night’s clash which includes Wes Hoolahan, Ciaran Clark, Harry Arter and Robbie Brady to name a few.
Balls https://t.co/ow2d8usGtA
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) March 21, 2017
Today, Newcastle United’s Daryl Murphy has also been ruled out through injury, so it’s safe to say that things are a bit thin on the ground out in Abbotstown.
So with such a thin squad to choose from, you could argue that a draw against Wales on Friday night wouldn’t be the worst result in the world.
Roy Keane was quizzed on this thinking process at a press conference today and his response was as you would expect – confident, challenging and a little bit scary.
“…working with the managers and the rest of the staff, with the group of players we have…If you think our mindset going into the game of football on Friday night at the Aviva is a draw [pause] then you are sadly mistaken.”
Typical fighting words from Ireland’s assistant manager and we must admit it’s a breath of fresh air to see this mentality in the coaching staff.
Especially when you consider the number one aim of the Trapatonni era was to solely focus on not losing a game of football.
You can see Keane’s answer to the query below.
Yes, Keano! Make sure to arrive early on Friday and let's get behind the team! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/dXthOGuPIL
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) March 21, 2017
