Hallgrimsson says lessons needed as FAI faces scrutiny over Bazunu consultation

Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson says he and the Football Association of Ireland must learn from the handling of the team’s Israel fixtures, as a parliamentary hearing raised fresh questions about consultation with goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu. BBC Sport reported the coach’s comments after a difficult international window marked by boycott calls and the goalkeeper’s withdrawal.

Watch the highlights:

Speaking on Wednesday, Hallgrimsson acknowledged that decisions made under pressure could look different in hindsight. He said the association, like himself, would need to reflect on what it could have done or communicated differently. The manager described the episode as a challenge to his leadership and said he wanted to return his immediate attention to football.

Separately, the FAI told the Oireachtas Sport Committee that staff had not discussed Bazunu’s views on facing Israel before the camp, according to The Irish Times. Director of football John Martin said it appeared the goalkeepers had not been contacted. Hallgrimsson had previously clarified that his own discussions had been with outfield players, leaving contact with goalkeepers to others.

Chief executive David Courell told the committee that Hallgrimsson had met Bazunu at Southampton in August, but that the Israel fixtures were not discussed. He said Bazunu’s subsequent decision to withdraw prompted other squad members to reconsider their positions, leading to further deliberations before the match went ahead.

The Irish Times reported that officials confirmed two player ballots took place. Courell said the second helped inform the association’s decision, while president Paul Cooke said greater clarity had been needed. Martin said Bazunu knew about the voting but did not participate; his opposition was nevertheless included in the final count. Courell maintained that the FAI, rather than the players, took responsibility for proceeding.

Ireland won Sunday’s game in Debrecen 3-0, but the debate has continued. BBC Sport reported that Irish Sport for Palestine’s Stop The Game campaign had renewed its appeal for a boycott of the return fixture because of the Israel-Gaza war. Hallgrimsson said the experience would require reflection on his responsibilities both as a coach and as the leader of the group.