Jimmy Dunne steps into Ireland's goalkeeping line-up after Bazunu quits

In the quiet of Debrecen's training ground on Saturday, the Irish camp watched as a lone figure stepped away from the squad. Following Gavin Bazunu's departure, Republic of Ireland defender Jimmy Dunne has been named the third registered goalkeeper for Sunday's Nations League clash with Israel,

Goalkeeping reshuffle

The 28‑year‑old QPR clubman will wear the number 23 shirt and joins Caoimhín Kelleher and Max O'Leary as the trio of registered keepers. Dunne missed Ireland's recent defeat to Kosovo but is now included in the matchday squad, satisfying UEFA's requirement for three goalkeepers.

On Saturday, Southampton's Gavin Bazunu stepped away from the team in Debrecen after a long day of talks and votes on whether the game should proceed. He issued an official statement later that evening, wishing his teammates well while confirming his decision to sit out the upcoming fixtures.

LEFOUR says Ireland's goalkeeper Bazunu boycotts games against Israel

"I have the utmost respect for every single one of my teammates, the manager, his staff and the Irish people," Bazunu said. He added, "I am a man of strong faith and try my best to be a person of character and principle, therefore I feel it would be wrong to participate in the upcoming fixtures against Israel." He concluded, "My decision is based purely upon my belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong. It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition to the Israeli people or the Jewish community but against the atrocities in the region."

Dunne's promotion underscores the squad's need to adapt quickly under UEFA's regulations, while Bazunu's principled withdrawal highlights the personal dimensions that can influence international selections. Ireland will now face Israel on Sunday with a reshaped goalkeeping department.

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