Gavin Bazunu reportedly urges Ireland teammates to boycott Israel fixture

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has reportedly told his teammates that he does not want Sunday’s UEFA Nations League clash against Israel to go ahead, placing the fixture under fresh uncertainty. According to Irish Mirror, Bazunu expressed his position during a squad meeting as players consider whether to participate.

Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson has also attracted criticism after describing the fixture as playing “against genocide”, while several Ireland players have reportedly expressed concerns. Jason Knight previously said he did not believe the match should take place, while stand-in captain Dara O’Shea said the players would make any decision collectively. The Irish squad is expected to discuss the situation further before the scheduled fixture in Debrecen, Hungary.