
Football
Share
Published 19:18 25 Jun 2016 BST
Explore more on these topics:
"Ward is improving which is good news and Jon has done very well in the last two days and we will have a look at him," he said. "Stephen's injury was a kick and it's blown up quite severely but he is doing very well. Jon did a little bit of work today and is doing well too."Ward's importance has come out of nowhere but, given how crucial Robbie Brady has been out the field, the left back's inclusion has changed everything. https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/746625032076533760 The manager was in buoyant form in Lyon on Saturday when he said that he wanted his team to attack France. Ireland have used three different formations already in this tournament and these are the options that the Derry man will be considering. TEAM 1
The diamond formation that got us here and that played so well against Sweden.
If Ward is fit, Brady can go into midfield and those faded options (alternatives) in midfield along with Hoolahan is the middle four that beat the world champions.
Richard Keogh appeared with the manager on Saturday for the press conference. That's usually a good sign that he will start and he certainly deserves to keep his place.
TEAM 2
The 4-3-3 that was so good against Italy.
Pace and verve. Energy and lots of it.
Ward's fitness is the biggest factor in this. If Brady is moved to full back, this formation isn't really an option anymore. Not with both Glenn Whelan and McCarthy in the team.
TEAM 3
The side that lost to Belgium.
Looks better on paper than in did on the field.
Ward's fitness is crucial. It effects Whelan, it effects Hoolahan and McClean - Brady obviously - and maybe even Jon Walters. It was Ward who took Walters' place for Belgium.
What would your team be?


FAI announce official decision for Ireland v Israel venue
BREAKING The FAI have confirmed that Ireland’s home fixture v Israel in the Nations League will be moved to a neutral venue according to RTE. Originally, the match was scheduled to take place on the 4th of October, in the Aviva Stadium. After a meeting on Thursday, the decision has been made to move the […]
Football
8h
Live sport on TV in Ireland this weekend – Football, GAA, Rugby – June 12-14th
The World Cup is here! With the World Cup kicking off last night as Mexico eased past South Africa. This weekend’s sport is jampacked with action from football, GAA and Rugby. There are set to be eight live World Cup matches this weekend, bolstered by huge All-Ireland and Tailteann Cup quarter finals. In the Rugby, […]
Football
10h
Football
Michael Carrick changes one of Man United’s longest modern day traditions
Football