Heimir Hallgrimsson rejects rumours, squad rally around Gavin Bazunu

While rumours of discord swirled around the Republic of Ireland camp, manager Heimir Hallgrimsson insisted the squad had rallied around goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu after his decision to sit out the UEFA Nations League tie against Israel on Sunday in Debrecen, Hungary.

Bazunu's stance and absence

Gavin Bazunu was the sole absentee as Ireland recorded a 3‑0 win over the Israeli side in Debrecen, Hungary. On the eve of the match the player said it would be wrong to take part in the fixtures against Israel, framing his choice as a stance against the atrocities in the region. His decision meant he missed the only Irish player on the field for that Sunday victory.

Team unity and upcoming fixtures

Reports on Saturday suggested the timing of his withdrawal had unsettled some within the camp, yet Hallgrimsson confirmed the goalkeeper will also miss the ‘home’ game against Israel in Backa Topola, Serbia, while training with his teammates at the Aviva Stadium ahead of Thursday’s home clash with Austria. In Wednesday’s pre‑match press conference the manager praised Bazunu, stating, “Gavin is a great lad… they have really welcomed him,” and added that the bond among the players remains strong despite the controversy. Hallgrimsson announced that Josh Keeley has been called up as an additional goalkeeper, set to become the number three when Bazunu sits out the Sunday match. Bosun Lawal, who also trained at the Aviva, will miss the Austria game as his recovery is overseen by Stoke City and sporting director Jonathan Walters.

Southampton’s Finn Azaz, who has Israeli roots on his mother’s side, remained on the bench in Debrecen. Hallgrimsson highlighted his emotional control, calling him one of the players he admires most for his conduct and noting that he will be left out of the Israel fixture. The manager said he has consulted senior leaders Nathan Collins and Séamus Coleman for advice, acknowledging that the situation is unprecedented and that the staff are “inventing as we go”. He believes the decisions made will be judged more favourably in hindsight.

Fans can watch Ireland’s UEFA Nations League tie with Austria on Thursday from 19:00 on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player, with further coverage provided by Journalist team.