Shamrock Rovers’ Stephen Bradley Confirms Byrne’s Absence for Key Match

Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley has clarified that midfielder Jack Byrne will not participate in the upcoming Europa Conference League qualifier against Ballkani on August 10, 2023, but is not sidelined due to injury. The Rovers will be looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, which took place last week.

Bradley confirmed that Byrne, who has earned four caps for the Republic of Ireland, was not included in last week’s squad, which means he is ineligible to play in the second leg at Tallaght Stadium. The manager reiterated that Byrne’s absence should not be viewed as a setback for the team. “No, he’s not injured,” Bradley stated, declining to elaborate further.

“We have a significant game tomorrow,” he continued, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the team and the players available for selection. “There will be no other talk today. It’s crucial to concentrate on winning this match.”

When asked about the potential impact of Byrne’s absence on the team’s morale, Bradley was resolute. “No. We focus on what we do, we focus on the group, we always have,” he asserted. The manager has consistently prioritized team cohesion, stating, “It’s always been a focus on the group and that doesn’t change.”

As the Rovers prepare for their pivotal encounter on Thursday, Bradley expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to adapt and remain focused. “We go Thursday-Sunday; you see how they perform on Sunday and how in tune they are with the game. These players move on, focus, and continue to concentrate; that’s what they do.”

With a place in the next round of the Europa Conference League at stake, the atmosphere at Tallaght Stadium is expected to be electric as the Shamrock Rovers aim to turn the tide against their Kosovan opponents. The match kicks off at 20:00 BST, and fans are hopeful for a triumphant turnaround.