Republic of Ireland boss explains situation for Wanderers keeper Gavin Bazunu

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu will return to the squad for Thursday’s Nations League match against Austria in Dublin, but he will still miss the following game against Israel in Hungary three days later. Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed Bazunu is in his plans for the Dublin fixture, yet has not made himself available for the subsequent match on neutral territory. Bazunu boycotted Ireland’s 3-0 win on Sunday in protest over the situation in Gaza, explaining his decision via a statement on social media. Players voted on whether to fulfill the tie after intense pressure since the draw in February, including a five-hour delay to a press conference on Saturday. The team wore black armbands to recognize lives lost in the Gaza conflict and refused pre-match formalities; captain Dara O’Shea did not shake hands with Israel skipper Manor Solomon. Hallgrimsson said there was “nobody questioning” Bazunu’s choice, and that Bazunu is happy the team won. The article cuts off mid-sentence as Bazunu’s further statement continues.