Giovanni Trapattoni has reiterated his desire to see new faces in the Ireland side, while also offering consolation to the injured Anthony Pilkington as he has told the Norwich winger he remains in the frame for the next international squad.
When Trappatoni announced his squad for Wednesday’s game there were five uncapped players named: Conor Sammon, Jeff Hendrick, Richard Keogh – all of Derby County - Anthony Pilkington and West Ham goalkeeper Stephen Henderson. Following the announcement of the squad, Trapattoni said he expected at least two or three of the five to take part in the friendly.
“I think they can start the game, because it will be a good test for them. I am sure two or three will start the game."
The Italian went on to specify Sammon, Pilkington and Hendrick as the players most likely to earn their first caps. He said today that he stood by his wish to utilize the new players at his disposal and was looking forward to seeing them in action.
“I think they have the good quality to help our team and I am very, very anxious to see them. It’s a pity Pilkington is injured because with Sammon, with Hendrick I thought we can have a good balance of technical, and attitude. It will be important they can give us their commitment because with their technical quality I’m sure they will play well."
Pilkington was forced to withdraw from the Ireland squad after he suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Norwich yesterday, during their 0-0 draw with Queen’s Park Rangers. It was the winger’s first international call up and most expected Wednesday’s game to be an opportunity for the twenty four year old to make the case for his inclusion in the squad for next month’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Sweden. Pilkington’s late withdrawal from the squad raised questions over whether he would now have to wait for another chance to impress before inclusion in a competitive squad, however today the Ireland manager said he would consider Pilkington when the player is next available.
“I said to him ‘It’s a pity’, but sure you can come in immediately with us when you are ready.”
Trapattoni also spoke about the situation regarding Damien Duff and Shay Given, while seemingly moving to put something of a temporary halt to speculation regarding their return to the squad. Both players announced their international retirement in the wake of Euro 2012, however both have since said they would be ready to return to the Ireland set up if called upon. Trapattoni has spoken with both players and explained to them his focus for the Poland game is on the future of the squad. The Italian told reporters that both offered their commitment to return to the side should he decide to call upon them.
“I sent them an SMS and informed them about this new situation. They answered me ‘Thank you but we will be ready if you need, we will be very ready for you and our country.”
When asked if he would be calling on the two veterans the manager said that while he was pleased with their attitude and response, for the moment he is looking towards younger players and the next generation of this Irish squad.
“In this moment we look about for the future, for the next generation.”
©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan
