Heimir: Finn Azaz one of the people 'I admire most in the world right now' 

Heimir Hallgrímsson praised the Ireland squad’s unity as he confirmed the team will fulfil its remaining Nations League fixture with Israel

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson tried to deflect discussion of the Nations League fixtures with Israel, insisting he and the team had to focus on Thursday’s clash with Austria.

However, he confirmed the second fixture, next Sunday in Serbia, will go ahead.

"The FAI has said we are playing both games and we will fulfill that. That was our intention when we came into this camp. It has been really really tough. But we are trying to focus on Austria. What happens after, we almost need to take it day by day."

Hallgrímsson was prepared to discuss his admiration for midfielder Finn Azaz, who has been reported to be conflicted about his Ireland future following the debate over fulfilling the opening fixture against Israel.

Azaz has Israeli family links and is reported to have spoken passionately in team meetings before the tie, which Ireland won 3-0.

After that game, Hallgrímsson explained why Azaz did not feature, saying he was “in a different position to other players in the squad” and that he felt he was not ready, despite the player being willing to play.

In Wednesday’s press briefing, Hallgrímsson expressed his admiration for the player.

“I think Finn has shown incredible emotional control, emotional awareness. He’s probably, in my mind at the moment, one of the people I admire the most in how he conducted himself in all of this.

"It is about being a member of a team, so you need to listen to all opinions. 

“That’s just one of the things that... to do your thing, to do your work with grace and understanding of all opinions. I’m just talking about walking the extra mile, to be part of a national team.

"I don't have words to explain to you. You wouldn't understand it inside camp. He has so much respect within this group of players.

"Just walking the extra mile to be a part of this team is amazing. So again, he's been one of the persons I admire the most in the world at this moment."

Hallgrímsson also praised goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who opted out of the opening Israel clash and will be replaced in the squad by Luton goalkeeper Josh Keeley in Serbia.

"Gavin is a great lad, I have always had a great relationship with him. It’s probably tougher for him than the other players.

“There has been a lot of lies said around all of this. He is taking part amazingly. It shows his character, to be with us. I want to give him praise for that and the players deserve praise for how welcoming they have been towards him. Life goes on.

"I think it shows how strong the bond is with the players. Even something like this is not breaking us."