The terrorist attacks in Belgium on Tuesday once again highlighted that security at Euro 2016 will have to be extremely tight to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the tournament. The Paris attacks last November took place on the same night that the Republic of Ireland drew 1-1 away to Bosnia Herzegovina in the first leg of their playoff.
When Martin O’Neill’s side qualified for the European Championship a few days later, the Paris attacks were still very fresh on everyone’s mind and I think security fears will still play on the minds of thousands of Irish fans heading to France in the summer.
Ireland assistant manager Roy Keane spoke about security fears yesterday and Martin O’Neill was also asked about it today. The Ireland boss admitted that he would have to accept playing games behind closed doors if it was the only alternative for safety reasons:
O’Neill also revealed that Darren Randolph and Rob Elliot will start a game each against either Switzerland or Slovakia. Randolph is in the driving seat to be the number one choice for Euro 2016 after some impressive performances since replacing Shay Given in the Germany game. The West Ham goalkeeper has got limited game time with his club but he’s looked very comfortable when playing for the Hammers in the FA Cup.
Elliot has been a regular for Newcastle since Tim Krul was ruled out for the season through injury. The Magpies may be in the relegation zone but the Ireland international has been one of their better performers in a troubled season.
Elliot believes he could handle the pressure of starting in a major tournament and he’is hoping to impress Martin O’Neill over the coming days:
The squad trained in Abbotstown once again but Jonathan Walters has gone back to Stoke with a hamstring injury and will miss the game against Switzerland on Friday but Martin O’Neill said he should be back for Tuesday. The newly crowned FAI Senior International player of the year is even expected to fly in to watch the Switzerland game at the Aviva Stadium. Jeff Hendrick is gone back to Derby with a shoulder injury and will miss the Switzerland and Slovakia games. Robbie Brady returned to training today but Robbie Keane sat out the session once again. The Ireland captain will be available for Friday night and O’Neill said he’ll start one of the two games.
