Dunphy clarifies ‘shameful’ remark

VERMIN and body-building were on the agenda yesterday as RTÉ football pundit Eamon Dunphy clarified remarks made following the Republic of Ireland’s draw with Italy at Croke Park last weekend.

A disgruntled Dunphy had used the word “shameful” in his post-match analysis on RTÉ.

The matter escalated when Republic of Ireland international Stephen Hunt, questioned about Dunphy’s comments at a press conference on Monday, decided to respond in kind, and labelled the often-controversial pundit “a skinny little rat”.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport’s Darren Frehill on RTÉ Radio’s Morning Ireland, however, Dunphy offered an explanation of his comments.

“One word was taken out of a 20-minute conversation – the word ‘shameful’,” said Dunphy. “It’s not an appropriate word to use for the performance (against Italy); what I was referring to was Andy Reid’s omission from the squad.

“I did use it (the word “shameful”); it was not the right word to use for the performance.

“It would be appropriate, I think, to what’s happening to Andy Reid.

“We have to remember all players love playing for their country and he must be very hurt and professionally isolated at the moment.

“He’s playing very well for Sunderland and should be in the Irish squad.”

Dunphy added: “I think we played very poorly for at least an hour-and-a-quarter of the game.

“What was depressing about it was that there doesn’t seem to be any attempt by the Irish team when they have the ball to play football and to pass the ball the way you should do at international level. I would say the word “shameful” in the context I used on Saturday was wrong. I’ve no problem admitting that.’

Hunt’s description of Dunphy as “a skinny little rat” was laughed off by the pundit.

“Stephen Hunt’s not exactly Mr Universe himself,” said Dunphy.

No word as yet from the ISPCA on how the rats of Ireland are feeling.