Joe’s injury is a significant setback for him and the U-21 team, according to coach Crawford. Despite the disappointment, Crawford is confident that Joe will recover from his grade two hamstring strain within three to four weeks. It is unfortunate timing as Joe was eager to impress the new manager, Gary O’Neil, in his first performance. However, Crawford remains hopeful that Joe will be able to attend the games to support his team, as long as he prioritizes his recovery.
On the subject of team selection, Tom Cannon was not included in the squad due to his ongoing decision-making process regarding his international future. Crawford has been in contact with Cannon and there have been no updates since June. Cannon appears to be preoccupied with his club commitments at this time.
A player who is expected to have a significant role in the upcoming campaign is Andrew Moran, a Brighton midfielder who recently joined Blackburn Rovers on loan for the season. Crawford recalls Moran’s early days at an U-16 trial when his jersey was too big for him, but acknowledges his talent and ability as a footballer. Crawford highlights Moran’s vision, dribbling skills, work rate, and positive attitude.
In addition to familiar faces, Crawford has introduced six new players to the squad for the upcoming matches. Zak Gilsenan, Tyler Goodrham, Adam Murphy, Alex Murphy, Tony Springett, and Owen Mason have all received their first call-ups to the U-21 team. Crawford singles out Gilsenan and Goodrham as players to watch, praising their creativity, goal-scoring abilities, and dedication to representing the Republic of Ireland.
The selection process for the squad was not easy for Crawford, as he aimed to create a balanced and attacking team with players who can adapt to multiple positions. Gilsenan’s recent goal for Blackburn and Goodrham’s impressive form at Oxford United caught Crawford’s attention.
The recent appointment of former Ireland defender Paul McShane as U-21 assistant coach has delighted the team. Crawford believes that McShane’s playing career and coaching enthusiasm make him an ideal fit for the team. McShane will balance his role as U-21 assistant coach with his position as lead coach for Manchester United’s U-15 academy. Crawford expresses his gratitude to Trevor Croly, the coach who assisted with the U-21 team in the previous windows, for his excellent contributions.
The U-21 team’s upcoming matches include a clash against Turkey and San Marino in the Euro U-21 Championship qualifiers. The matches will be held at Turner’s Cross in Cork on September 8th and September 12th, respectively.
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