Under the lights in Hungary, Ireland’s Nations League preparations have taken an unusual turn: 28-year-old defender Jimmy Dunne has been registered as an emergency goalkeeper for Sunday night’s match against Israel.
Defender Dunne named among Ireland’s reserve keepers
Ireland were forced into a makeshift solution after Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad for the two-match Nations League programme against Israel. UEFA regulations require every team to include at least three goalkeepers in its match squad, leaving the Irish federation needing an additional option.
- Jimmy Dunne, normally a defender, has been named as one of Ireland’s two substitute goalkeepers.
- The match against Israel is scheduled for Sunday at 20:45 in Hungary.
- Ireland will face Israel again in Serbia on 4 October.
- Dunne is 28 years old.
The selection underlines the limited room for manoeuvre once Bazunu made himself unavailable, with Dunne stepping into a role far removed from his usual duties at the back.
Bazunu explains decision to withdraw
Bazunu opted out of the double-header because of the war in Gaza. In a statement posted on Instagram, the goalkeeper said his decision was based on personal conviction rather than hostility towards Israeli people or the Jewish community.
“My decision is based only on my personal belief that killing innocent people is wrong,” Bazunu said. “It is important to make clear that my position is not directed at the Israeli people or the Jewish community, but at the atrocities being committed in the region.”
UEFA rule creates a late squad problem
With three goalkeepers compulsory for Nations League fixtures, Ireland could not simply travel with their remaining senior keepers after Bazunu’s withdrawal. Dunne’s inclusion ensures the side meet UEFA’s registration requirement ahead of the meeting in Hungary.
