'I support my players in all their decisions, football and non-football' - Carla Ward on Ireland facing Israel

Ward welcomes back goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan, midfielder Megan Connolly and attacker Leanne Kiernan.

Republic of Ireland women's head coach Carla Ward during a visit to Carrigtwohill Community National School in Cork. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Carla Ward says she would back any of her Irish women’s players who chose not to face Israel in the World Cup playoffs.

Next week sees the qualifiers for the 2027 showpiece kick off but only four European teams are guaranteed to qualify directly for Brazil.