Hallgrimsson confirms Bazunu return for Austria after Israel withdrawal

Gavin Bazunu will be included in the Republic of Ireland squad for Thursday's match against Austria in Dublin, head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed after Sunday's win over Israel. BBC Sport reported that the goalkeeper will remain unavailable for the return meeting with Israel on 4 October.

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Bazunu withdrew on Saturday, saying he believed participation in either Israel fixture would be wrong. Hallgrimsson said the squad respected his decision, although its timing had made preparations difficult. The coach confirmed that Bazunu was travelling back with the team, rather than remaining apart from the group following his withdrawal.

Speaking to RTE after the match, in comments carried by BBC Sport, Hallgrimsson said his players' actions had brought international attention to the protest. He also rejected any suggestion that individual views about playing Israel had influenced selection, saying his choices were based on the performance he expected from the team.

AFP reported that Ireland's players wore black armbands and lowered their heads during Israel's national anthem in Debrecen. There were no customary handshakes or pennant exchange before kick-off. The match went ahead after the Irish squad voted overwhelmingly to play despite pressure for a boycott over the war in Gaza. Israel were the designated home side at the Hungarian venue.

On the pitch, Ireland secured a 3-0 Nations League victory with all three goals arriving before the half-hour. According to The Irish Times, Troy Parrott opened the scoring in the 14th minute and Adam Idah added the second two minutes later from Jack Moylan's pass. Moylan then scored himself in the 25th minute to complete Ireland's scoring.

The Irish Times also reported several changes from the side beaten 1-0 in Kosovo on Thursday. Liam Kitching came in for John Egan, Ryan Manning replaced Liam Scales and Conor Coventry was selected ahead of Jason Knight in midfield. Caoimhin Kelleher started in goal, with Parrott and Idah operating ahead of Moylan as Ireland returned to winning ways.