Irish players 'exposed, hung out to dry' by FAI - Ennis

Social Democrats TD and Sport Spokesperson Daniel Ennis has accused the Irish Football Association (FAI) of abandoning its players, leaving them exposed and "hung out to dry" by the board's decision to proceed with controversial fixtures against Israel. The FAI is set to appear before the Oireachtas Sports Committee to explain its reasoning behind the decision, with the association's CEO David Courell and other senior officials facing questions from TDs and Senators.

According to Ennis, the Ireland players were left in a vulnerable position, with the weight resting entirely on their shoulders. He described the situation as the "biggest crisis facing Irish football" and stated that the FAI's actions have "put a dark stain on Irish football."

Ennis called for the FAI board to resign, demanding accountability, transparency, and a duty of care from the organization. He expressed concern that the players' safety and well-being were not adequately protected, emphasizing that the decision to play the match against Israel should have been reconsidered in light of the racial abuse and discriminatory chants directed at the team during their previous fixture.

Former League of Ireland footballer Ennis also criticized the FAI President Paul Cooke, questioning his handling of the situation. He suggested that the board should have taken a different course of action, pointing out that the players' votes to play the match were ultimately overridden by the FAI's decision.

Ennis further warned of potential consequences if the Israel match proceeds, expressing hope that a large protest would take place at the AVIVA Stadium during the game against Austria. He urged the FAI to step in and prevent the match from happening, rejecting the idea of allowing players to vote again, as eight players had already indicated their unwillingness to play against Israel.