Irish football cult hero beams in surprise cameo during Ireland loss ...
THE AVIVA STADIUM again proved an unhappy hunting ground for Ireland as they fell to a 1-0 friendly loss to Switzerland.
But prior to a spirited second-half showing, those in attendance had their mood boosted by the half-time guest of honour.
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Longtime kitman under Jack Charlton, Charlie O'Leary, was given a hearty cheer as he was welcomed out to the new Lansdowne Road ground.
Remarkably - given how much vigour he still looks to have - the beloved Dubliner celebrated his 100th birthday in February.
It was a nice moment to see him once again acclaimed by the Irish footballing public.
As for the action when the players came back out onto the pitch?
John O'Shea noted in his post-match interview that he was very pleased with how they adjusted after admittedly being outplayed throughout the opening 45 minutes.
Sammie Szmodics looked every bit the in-form man in the squad as he was the most threatening option from start to finish.
And there were glimpses of potential from another debutant from this international window in Finn Azaz after he came on in a final roll of the dice.
Evan Ferguson continues to be left largely isolated though which is a major concern.
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Going forward, pairing him with Adam Idah as a front two might be the best - if riskiest - option as they dovetailed well together.
Whomever lands the manager's job on a permanent basis will have a conundrum on their hands.
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The squad is over-stocked with quality options at centre-back yet under-supplied in the heart of midfield.
With England awaiting in September's Nations League campaign opener, the smart money would remain on a rearguard 5-4-1 variation being employed rather than anything too gung-ho.
