No surprise that the Republic of Ireland lies becalmed at 32nd in the FIFA rankings. Since the draw against Cyprus a form of hysteria has gripped the Irish soccer world. Some of the criticism meted out to Steve Staunton is unwarranted.
Much of the support for the Republic's soccer team is propelled on a wave of self delusion. There is the mistaken belief amongst the majority of supporters that Ireland is a major soccer power. It is nothing of the sort. It is time to face some facts.
Ireland has never won a major soccer competition at adult level. David O'Leary's penalty in the 1990 World Cup and Pakie Bonner's save against Timofte are replayed ad nauseam on RTE. People still talk about the glorious failure of 1990.
Increasingly club soccer is challenging International soccer for preeminence. The clubs pay the players wages. Naturally enough players feel a greater loyalty towards their clubs. It is in their interests to avoid injuries in Internationals. This explains why strong soccer nations such as Spain often fail to fulfil their potential at International level and may even lose to weaker teams.
On some occasions Irish teams may defeat stronger international sides. The Internationals showcase the talents of Irish players playing in the lower divisions in England. Sterling international performances may result in a contract with a Premier Division side. So generally Irish players are more highly motivated than opponents who already have good contracts with their clubs.
There is the flawed assumption that Ireland has an abundance of highly talented young players . There are few young players of exceptional talent in Ireland.It was noticeable in the recent International against Cyprus that many of the Cypriot players had superior ball skills.
Irish soccer needs a dose of realism.
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