Talking points as Ireland's Euro dream ends: Despite penalty miss, Matt Doherty here to stay

It’s difficult to see where Seamus Coleman could now fit into the side

Republic of Ireland's Robbie Brady (centre right) embraces team-mate Matt Doherty after the penalty shoot-out during the UEFA Euro 2020 Play-Off semi final match at the Narodny Futbalovy, Bratislava. Picture: Martin Baumann/PA Wire.

It was easy for Stephen Kenny to suggest he considered accommodating Séamus Coleman in the same team as his Matt Doherty after his captain missed the trip due to injury. In a new regime and era, actions by the manager confirm his preference when it comes to the biggest selection dilemma within his squad.

It’s difficult to see where Coleman could fit into the side, given the manager’s aversion to operating the three centre-back system that the Donegalman he has sometimes figured in at Everton.