Ireland goalkeeper explains why he refused to face Israel

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has announced his decision not to participate in his country's two matches against Israel in the UEFA Nations League group stage, confirming that he will not play in the two matches due to his personal convictions. Bazuno, 24, explained in a statement posted on his Instagram account that the decision was not easy, while stressing that representing his country's national team is of great importance to him. Ireland's goalkeeper said: "Representing my country means everything to me, and I have great respect for all my teammates, as well as the coach, his staff, and the Irish people." He added: “But I made a decision that was not easy for me. I am a very religious person and I always strive to be principled and have values, and therefore I believe that my participation in the next two matches against Israel would be the wrong thing for me.” Bazuno continued: “My decision is based solely on my personal conviction that killing innocent people is wrong. It is important to emphasize that my position is not against the Israeli people or the Jewish community, but against what I consider to be horrific acts taking place in that region.” Ireland's goalkeeper concluded his statement by saying: "There aren't many moments in life when you get the chance to stand up for something bigger than yourself, and I strongly believe this is one of those moments." The first leg between Israel and Ireland is scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 27, in the Hungarian city of Debrecen, with the return leg to be held on October 4 in the Serbian city of Bačka Topola, with both matches being played at neutral venues.