Football: Bonner cast in lead
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.(First Edition)
PAT BONNER may not be able to find a place among the first XI at Celtic, but a twist of fate means the veteran will be the undisputed No1 for the Republic of Ireland tomorrow when he leads his country for the first time in their European Championship qualifier against Liechtenstein in Dublin.
'I am only playing because Alan Kelly is unfortunately injured. To be honest, after the highs of World Cup finals I thought those days were over for me, but this has given me a great lift,' the 34-year-old goalkeeper said.
He has played only 45 minutes for the Celtic first team this season, in a pre-season friendly. Nevertheless, Jack Charlton, Ireland's manager, had no hesitation in extending Bonner's record number of caps to 77.
Charlton, who misses the game to watch future Group Six opponents Austria and Northern Ireland, will not name his side until after training today, but he will have Niall Quinn leading the attack as the Manchester City striker has shaken off a neck injury.
Liechtenstein do not arrive in Dublin until today. Most of them were involved in regional League games in Switzerland on Sunday and could not afford time off work to travel to Ireland any earlier.
Kingsley Black, the Nottingham Forest winger who was called into Northern Ireland's squad to face Austria as a replacement for Steve Morrow, has had to withdraw.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments