The Republic of Ireland’s return to the big stage at Euro 2012 was a disappointing one, losing every game. Supporter Paul Moore asks what went wrong?
It was great that Ireland made it to a major football tournament for the first time since 2002 and yet again the fans that get the praise; for once it would be nice if it was the players.
For me Giovanni Trapattoni had worked wonders in getting the side to the finals but success there itself it was a bridge to far.
What I don’t understand is if you take two goalkeepers with you then you should have confidence in both of them. So why play Shay Given, whom I regard as a very good keeper, while he is recovering from injury?
Keiran Westwood is a fine keeper but wasn’t used; this proved to be a mistake.
We played the world champions Spain and the system they played overran our midfield; this should have been worked out before the game and as far as tactics go it was all wrong; mistake.
Aiden McGeady didn’t have the best of tournaments so why did he start every game? McClean had a great season at Sunderland and is a class player yet he didn’t get a chance to shine; mistake.
Roy Keane, the ex-Ireland captain decided to have a go at basically everyone that he could half way through the three games; as a former player and manager he must have known what he was doing and saying; mistake.
Now the question is does Trapattoni stay on or should another man be given the chance to lead the boys in Green?
As I’ve said before I think he’s done a great job getting us to the Euros but lost the plot once we got to Poland. A bit like Capello and England in South Africa.
I’d like to see the under-21 coach Don Givens given a chance to lead his country. He’s done a fine job with the youngsters and he knows the senior squad as most have gone onto it from his side.
Some of the older players need to have a long hard think about international retirement; we have some outstanding talent coming through.
I really hope Robbie Keane keeps on playing; his hunger and desire to win is amazing and I hope the country’s top scorer carries on for a good while yet.
As for the fans; best in the world and no mistake!
image: © law_keven
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