Heimir Hallgrímsson has brought an uncomfortable international question into Ireland’s meetings with Israel, asking why Russia and Israel have faced differing treatment in football and acknowledging that his own players do not feel at ease about the fixtures.
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The Republic of Ireland coach criticised Israel’s position in the game and said he wanted explanations over the contrast with the measures applied to Russia.
Hallgrímsson also accepted that the matches involving Israel have left members of his squad uncomfortable, placing the issue beyond the usual boundaries of preparation and selection.
Israel’s football federation responded to the Ireland manager’s comments, answering his criticism as the dispute moved from the touchline into the wider international football debate.
