Blame me for Ireland v Israel games, not players

FAI Director of Football John Martin has spoken of the need to 'protect' Republic of Ireland players if they take part in the autumn UEFA Nations League matches against Israel, as he reiterated his stance that he'd prefer if the games did not have to be played.

Heimir Hallgrimsson's team are scheduled to face Israel in Debrecen in Hungary on 27 September for the 'away' tie, before the return 'home' fixture on 4 October in Backa Topola, Serbia.

In July an FAI motion in favour of proceeding with the Nations League double header against Israel was backed at an extraordinary general meeting. The delegates voted whether to endorse the FAI board's decision to fulfil the games, with the vote passing by 68% to 32%.