It may only be an international friendly in November, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t some reason for excitement ahead of tonight’s clash.
Glenn Whelan’s last hoorah
At times unglamorous, tonight’s game will allow for some retrospective appreciation of what has been a relatively remarkable international career.
Making his international breakthrough as a 24-year-old, Glenn Whelan has been a near ever-present figure in an Irish jersey ever since.
Not synonymous with the most fondly-remembered era in Irish football, he has been a dutiful, committed and (just think back to that Italy goal) occasionally splendid player who deserves his night in the spotlight.
It looks like tonight will be the last time we see Glenn Whelan in a green jersey. Image: ©INPHO/Bryan Keane
Michael Obafemi
As one chapter concludes, another begins – perhaps. Depending on what direction the 18-year-old’s international career goes, tonight’s game against Northern Ireland could be the start of a long and fruitful relationship between Michael Obafemi and the Irish fans.
Either way, he is a very exciting young talent and could – hopefully – light up tonight’s game if given the chance.
Martin v Michael
While not reaching the enmity of Guardiola v Mourinho circa 2011, there is some bite to the
managerial match-ups this evening.
With the question of international allegiance rearing its head once again, this time in the form of Jimmy Dunne, both men will undoubtedly be keen to get one over on the other.
Speaking on OTB AM this morning, Dan McDonnell summed up the relationship; "I think
there might be a small frostiness there, just lingering beneath the surface."
Martin O'Neill face more questions this week about his squad and the eligibility of players. Image: ©INPHO/Bryan Keane
Travelling Support
Much has changed with Northern Ireland since they last travelled southward; there will be no repeat of the 5-0 defeat Nigel Worthington’s side suffered in 2011.
Subsequently, we can likely expect a fairly vocal, boisterous reception from the significant swell of travelling support.
With Steven Davis readying himself for an international friendly with a bit more 'edge', it’s sure those Northern Irish fans making their way to the Aviva tonight will share his sensibilities.
Return of Robbie Brady / Seani Maguire-Callum Robinson Axis
It’s a little over one year since Robbie Brady turned out for the Republic of Ireland; that 5-1 defeat to Denmark not a great note to end on.
With Martin O’Neill recently vouching for a system with five at the back, it will be intriguing to see what role the manager finds for one of Ireland’s most technically adept players.
Another player bedeviled by injuries but expected for a return is Seani Maguire. With
Shane Long out, and Obafemi unlikely to start, Irish fans may finally get an opportunity to see Maguire play a significant role in tonight’s game – all the better if he can pair up with his club-mate Callum Robinson.
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