NEWCASTLE STRIKER LEON Best has been called up to the Ireland squad after Shane Long’s absence was all-but-confirmed today.
Despite many critics calling for his inclusion, Best was initially left out of the squad for the upcoming Euro 2012 playoff games against Estonia.
Both Best and his manager Alan Pardew expressed surprise at Trapattoni’s decision to omit him from the initial squad, despite a series of fine performances in the Premier League, which have helped guide his club to third place in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, the BBC are reporting that, in addition to Long, John O’Shea looks likely to miss out.
His manager Steve Bruce confirmed the player was unlikely to be fit for the game, saying:
“He’s certainly got no chance for Saturday and looking at the first game for Ireland next Friday, I would have thought he’s a huge doubt for that as well, which is a shame for the lad.”
The first leg of the playoff in Tallinn is on 11 November, with the return leg in Dublin taking place four days later.
About time. Thankfully Trap has a number of quality goal scorers at his disposal. Competition for places is healthy. Should keep players minds focused.
Why did it take so long to Best in the squad
Why did it take so for Best to be in the squad
“I GIVE UP”
Bad day jimmy
Leon Best, it’s good to have you back!
Finally!
It’s about time but will he get a run out at all!
Stokes shouldn’t even be considered. Wouldn’t want him to get tired.
he will give a different dimension against estonia…long…doyle …keane…keogh…cox…pretty much do the same!
Best can cause trouble in estonia….keane and best to start?
Shame Keane is back. Long wouldn’t have started anyways. Trap would have played Cox & Walters first(could have been an exciting partnership)
Anthony Stokes deserves a shot as a wildcard- a sub that could get that vital goal late in the match.
Walters & Cox to hopefully start against Estonia
Himself and stokes should have been called up
Hope he scores a hat trick to rub their noses in it. Tbh a hat trick from anyone and I will settle for that!