Fans question John O'Shea call in Belgium and Switzerland friendlies

Republic of Ireland fans have questioned John O'Shea's decision not to give Jake O'Brien any minutes in either of the Boys in Green's recent friendlies.

O'Shea took charge of Ireland's Aviva Stadium clashes with Belgium and Switzerland during this month's international window on an interim basis after the FAI failed to appoint a full-time manager since Stephen Kenny left the role last November.

Ireland failed to score in either of the recent games, drawing 0-0 with Belgium on Saturday before losing 1-0 to Switzerland three days later.

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However, it was O'Shea's decision not to play defender O'Brien in either game that seems to have left a number of fans frustrated.

One wrote: "Can’t believe Jake O’Brien hasn’t played a minute for Ireland. He’s our most inform CB."

Another commented: "Jake O’Brien got ZERO minutes in two friendlies despite being one of Ireland’s most in form players…"

Someone else said: "Jake O’Brien (22). Centre back for Ligue 1 club Lyon, received 0 minutes in the Republic of Ireland’s friendly games this week. Why did John O’Shea not give an in form centre back Jake O’Brien a chance?"

"Don’t know how Jake didn’t play," read another comment.

Jake O’Brien
(Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne)

O'Brien has scored four goals in 19 appearances for Lyon this season, with the club winning nine of their last 12 games. They are also through to the semi-finals of Coupe de France and will face Valenciennes on April 3.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, after Tuesday's match, the defender wrote: "Enjoyable few weeks back in Ireland. All focus on the back end of the season with @OL.

"See you at the Groupama Stadium on Saturday."

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