John Egan defends Callum Robinson's vaccine stance

The attacker’s admission on Tuesday has caused shockwaves, especially since the West Bromwich Albion star missed six internationals and had restricted game-time in another two arising from two bouts of the virus nine months apart.

John Egan during a Republic of Ireland training session at the Baku Olympic Stadium. Picture:  Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Manager Stephen Kenny and team-mate John Egan have leapt to the defence of "vilified" Republic of Ireland striker Callum Robinson following his admission that he has not been vaccinated against Covid-19.

The 26-year-old West Brom frontman revealed during the build-up to Saturday evening's World Cup qualifier in Azerbaijan that he has decided for now not to have the jab despite twice contracting the virus, and he has since endured a tide of criticism.