REPUBLIC OF IRELAND BOSS STEPHEN KENNY has confirmed Ireland captain Seamus Coleman is touch and go for Monday night's clash against France in Dublin next week
Coleman missed the 3-2 Latvia win during the week because of a thigh strain.
Coleman has been in fine form with his club side Everton this season but picked up the injury in the Chelsea game last weekend.
"He would be part of our plans, for sure, so I’m just waiting to see how the situation goes," said Kenny at the FAI's announcement of its partnership with Circle K, the association's new official fuel and convenience partner.
“Seamus is in good form, probably in his best form in the last two years as he had that hamstring injury four- or five-times last year and he was struggling with it.
“People thought he was getting old, but it was never about that. He needed a run of frequent training and regular matches in the Premier League have been good for him.
“I was at the game last week at Brentford when they won 1-0 and he played really well. He was flying up the wing… It would be ideal to have him but regardless we have the capacity to put in strong performances.”
Kenny has also remained tight-lipped about the Ireland's goalkeeper situation.
Why always us! Seamus Coleman is a doubt for Monday with a thigh strain. It was the reason he didn't make the bench against Latvia. His experience will be vital against the French. ☘️ #coybig pic.twitter.com/7lMDSIH3lO
— Éire Guide (@eireguide) March 24, 2023
Caoimhin Kelleher started the Latvia game but conceded two goals in the game.
Bazunu, who has been Ireland's number 1 is expected to return to the side for the France game, but Kenny did not confirm or deny that he would
“Gavin has been consistently playing for us in a lot of the main games. He has been quite consistent.
“But it’s only fair that I speak to the team before I reveal that publicly. I think that would only be fair.
"In relation to watching the match back with Caoimhín he had no chance for that incredible first goal.
“The second goal, when I watched it on the side-lines, my initial instinct was he could have done better, he could have saved it.
“But the ricochet from Nathan Collins, from point blank range, made it extremely difficult. I’d completely absolve Caoimhin from any responsibility on that second goal."
Ireland's game against France starts 7.45pm on Monday
You can watch it live on RTE TWO.
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