Martin O’Neill hopes to postpone ‘natural exodus’ of senior players

While he fervently hopes that any end of era in Irish football is still a matter of months rather than days away, Martin O’Neill has said he expects a “natural exodus” of senior players once his team’s interest in World Cup 2018 is over.

“Well, I think there was talk after the Euros that one or two might drop away and, of course, age catches up with you,” the manager conceded.

“You’re hoping for younger, fresher blood, boys who can not only step in but eventually be as good as the players who are leaving. I think it’s just a natural progression that one or two will probably end up calling it a day. I’m hoping it’s not Friday or Monday.