Irish players were reportedly shown a controversial video before they faced England.
The Football Association of Ireland have launched an investigation amid reports that a politically charged video was shared with the Irish squad before their meeting with England. The video in question was reportedly ‘anti-British/English’ in nature, according to some sources. Others have claimed that the video was ‘pro-Irish’.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, several members of the squad were shocked by the content of the video. It was meant as a motivational tool to prepare Ireland before their fixture with England, however it appeared to have an adverse affect on some. The video in question has not been revealed to the public yet.
“The Football Association of Ireland is aware of issues surrounding content shared with our Republic of Ireland senior men’s team ahead of the recent international friendly against England at Wembley Stadium. The FAI is already looking into this matter internally as a matter of urgency to establish the facts. The FAI has no further comment to make at this time.”, the FAI explained in a statement made earlier.
Rumours of an informant within the Irish camp have circulated since reports of the story broke. A member of the Ireland backroom staff has been mentioned extensively, however nothing has been confirmed as of yet.
Regardless of who leaked the story, it is sure to put even more pressure on Stephen Kenny’s shoulders. The current Ireland manager is still looking for his first win in charge after seven games with just one goal scored in that time. This recent controversy will only prompt further questions about the stability of the Ireland manager’s job.
Time will tell what becomes of Stephen Kenny’s current position. That said, he could have done without this developing situation, especially amid growing concerns from certain sections of the Irish support.
