Republic of Ireland v New Zealand - Dublin - 14th November 2019 - Friendly
Much to address in this game.
I doubt too many will dispute that Randolph, Doherty, Duffy, Egan & Stevens all start against Denmark. There may be another defender in there if we play a back 3 again, but either way I'd expect those 5 to be watching on from the stand for the New Zealand game. Clark has got back in at Newcastle so perhaps a good opportunity to bring him back in. Possibly do the same with Brady or left back, or take the chance to cap Ryan Manning.
We need an alternative to Whelan. He's still the best we have in that role an will play v Denmark. I reckon we maybe use this friendly to give Lenihan a full 90 minutes there. The rest of the midfield is a mess. The calls for Byrne to get a chance should be heeded in this one. He does deserve an opportunity.
I liked the work O'Dowda did tonight and as it stand I would be all for playing him against Denmark. I'd play him in this as well. The same applies to Robinson on the other flank. That left seems to be his best position so I'd give him a run there.
And up front I think the last few games exposed Collins. He's no alternative to McGoldrick and isn't ever likely to be. On the basis of that and how well Idah has done for the U21s I'd give him a senior cap in this. It would be great for his development i think. .
----------- Travers ----------
Christie Long Clark Manning
----------- Lenihan ----------
------- Browne Byrne -------
O'Dowda ---------- Robinson
------------- Idah ------------
When i look at that team I think it exposes the lack of strength in depth in our squad. But that won't change until we starting giving the young lads a chance to force their way in.