IRELAND MANAGER GIOVANNI Trapattoni admits he is yet to decide on whether or not to take James McClean to Euro 2012.
The 22-year-old Sunderland winger made his highly-anticipated senior debut for the country in their 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic last week after his form in the Premier League caught the eye of the Italian boss.
Before heading to Poland where his side will take on Croatia, Spain and Italy, Trapattoni must name a 23-man squad and there has been a lot of speculation over the possibility of McClean’s inclusion.
And at a two-day UEFA meeting for coaches ahead of June’s tournament, the former Juventus and Inter Milan gaffer said he hasn’t made his mind up yet.
“McClean is not important at the moment because I said we have opportunities in the future,” the 72-year-old told journalists.
We follow many games and I know him very well. He’s a good player, he is young and at this moment I have not made any decision.
“We have a good squad and the competition is tough – we have Duff, McGeady and Hunt. We follow him because he is young and his mentality is strong. I have not decided whether he can participate in the Euros or not.”
When asked if he has any worries about Richard Dunne’s ability to recover in time to play on June 10, he added that player told him the he will be fit.
“I was in touch with him (Dunne). He said he will be ready before the last two games of the Premier League. I’m sure our doctor is in touch. He said Richard will be ready for the Euros.”
Can he name another Irish player who’s getting the same plaudits as McClean?
You pick your best players – simple as.
What about Andy Reid?
Best thing since sliced bread or ate a lot of ?????
He should be on the plain full stop. He is 10 times better than Hunt. Pick players on form not players you feel you owe something too.