Gleeson refuses to rule out Croker move

Eileen Gleeson refused to rule out the prospect of Ireland staging their July glamour tie against France at Croke Park or Páirc Uí Chaoimh – even if it now seems almost certain that Tallaght will stage the fixture.

The Central Council of the GAA confirmed last weekend it will open its doors to rugby this summer as Leinster seek to move out of the Aviva Stadium, which is due to undergo remedial work, denying Ireland the chance to host their tie there in July.

Two of their other Nations League fixtures, including the blockbuster tie against England on Tuesday week, will take place in the Aviva but they cannot play there in July, with potential European involvement from Shamrock Rovers complicating their plans.

“It’s undecided yet,” said Gleeson. “Still a lot of negotiations going on or chats going on around the availability of Tallaght Stadium. I don’t really have any updates on that, just that it’s undecided yet.”

Asked about the potential for switching to a GAA stadium, with Croke Park already earmarked as a fanzone for the Europa League final in May, Gleeson was non-committal.

“I’m not involved in those conversations right now but I’m sure all options that are available will be considered. That’s as much as I know about it now but the more options that we have the better, and I’m sure all viable options will be considered.”

Sinead Farrelly’s absence from Ireland plans remains a significant blow as Gleeson unveiled her squad for the opening Nations League ties against France and England. Defender Niamh Fahey and midfielder Tyler Toland return to the squad after missing two friendly games in February.

Clearance

Anna Patten becomes the latest recruit underthe grandparent ruling but is awaiting international clearancefromFIFAbeforebeingdeclared eligible for the two qualifiers.

Defender Tara O’Hanlon is still working through return-to-play protocol, while Jamie Finn (knee) is a long-term absentee.

Meanwhile, Ireland international Chloe Mustaki after she was ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury.

Mustaki has battled back from illness and injury in her career before but due to a hip problem, she will not appear for club or country again this term.

“I’m extremely disappointed to not be able to feature again this season but the support from everyone at the club, as well as the fans, has been a big help in recent weeks,” Mustaki said.

She missed the most recent international window with a groin injury but now a hip problem has been diagnosed.