In the light of what we had witnessed from the Republic of Ireland football team in eight short days, these revelations were somewhat depressing. The fact is that over half of the Irish team have been playing more or less constantly for over seven years. Some have been playing for the entire nine years of Jack Charlton's tenure. While the best are still there on merit, nevertheless the lack of youth and depth in Irish football is frightening. Sure, we have Babb, Kelly and McAteer, but don't forget that two of them are already twenty-three.
New blood is needed and needed fast.
Meanwhile, on the rugby front, I read that Donal Spring is wondering where all the talented schools rugby players go in Ireland. I would suggest to Donal to take a good long hard look at the situation. Just because the coverage of the sport uses up a few minor rainforests does not mean that it is particularly popular. Less than 50 schools compete nationally in the A schools rugby competition. And take a look at the list of winners for the last 25 years.