Finn Azaz Starts for Ireland while John O’Shea Makes Six Changes for the Hungry Friendly
Dublin, Ireland – Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has handed a first international start to Blackburn Rovers midfielder Finn Azaz for the upcoming friendly match against Hungary on Tuesday night. Azaz, who qualifies for Ireland through his Irish mother, has impressed at club level this season and has been rewarded with a call-up to the senior squad. He is expected to start in central midfield alongside Josh Cullen. Head coach for the Hungary national team, John O’Shea, has made six changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Turkey on Thursday. Manchester United defender Ethan Laird comes into the back four, replacing Matt Doherty, while Caoimhín Kelleher starts in goal ahead of Gavin Bazunu. Jeff Hendrick and Troy Parrott have also been recalled to the starting lineup, with Alan Browne and Chiedozie Ogbene dropping out. Callum Robinson is expected to lead the line for Ireland, supported by Azaz and Parrott. Hungary, meanwhile, will be looking to continue their unbeaten run under O’Shea. The Hungarians have drawn their last three matches and will be hoping to secure a victory in Dublin. They are expected to field a strong side, including RB Leipzig midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai and Fenerbahce forward Attila Szalai. The match will kick off at the Aviva Stadium at 7:45 pm (Irish time). It will be the first time that Ireland has played Hungary since 2019, when the two sides drew 0-0 in a friendly.
Republic of Ireland (probable lineup):
Goalkeeper: Caoimhín Kelleher Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Shane Duffy, John Egan, Ethan Laird Midfielders: Finn Azaz, Josh Cullen, Jeff Hendrick, Troy Parrott Forwards: Callum Robinson, James McClean
Hungary (probable lineup):
Goalkeeper: Péter Gulácsi Defenders: Attila Szalai, Willi Orbán, Ádám Lang Midfielders: Dominik Szoboszlai, Callum Styles, Ádám Nagy, Loïc Négo Forwards: Roland Sallai, Ádám Szalai, Martin ÁdámFinn Azaz starts for Ireland while John O’Shea makes six changes for the Hungary friendly.