Troy Parrott’s Last-Minute Heroics Boost O’Shea’s Credentials as Ireland Boss
Budapest, Hungary – Republic of Ireland secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Hungary in their UEFA Nations League clash, thanks to a dramatic 90th-minute winner from Troy Parrott. The result has bolstered the chances of interim manager John O’Shea becoming the permanent boss of Ireland. Ireland took the lead in the 24th minute when Enda Stevens’ cross found Robbie Brady at the far post, and the Burnley winger headed home. Hungary leveled matters just before halftime when Adam Szalai tapped in from close range. With the game seemingly destined to end in a draw, Parrott popped up in the dying moments to snatch all three points. The 20-year-old striker, on loan at MK Dons, met a cross from substitute Callum Robinson and fired a powerful shot into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the Irish players and staff. The victory was a much-needed boost for Ireland, who have struggled for consistency in recent months. It also came as a timely confidence boost for interim manager John O’Shea. The former Manchester United defender has been in charge of the team since Stephen Kenny stepped down in April, and his strong results have put him in contention to take the job on a permanent basis. “I’m delighted with the win,” said O’Shea after the game. “The players showed great character and determination tonight. It was a tough game, but we dug deep and got the three points.” When asked about his future plans, O’Shea remained coy. “I’m just focusing on the job at hand,” he said. “We’ve got two more games to go in the Nations League, and I want to make sure we finish as strongly as possible.” However, the FAI are believed to be impressed with O’Shea’s work so far, and it is understood that he is high on their list of candidates to become the next Ireland manager. Parrott’s goal was a fitting end to a game that had been largely dominated by Ireland. The young striker has been in excellent form for MK Dons this season, scoring 10 goals in 15 appearances, and his performance against Hungary showed that he is ready for the international stage. The victory against Hungary leaves Ireland in second place in Group B1 of the Nations League, two points behind Ukraine. They travel to Scotland on Saturday before hosting Armenia in their final group game next Tuesday.
Troy Parrott’s last-minute winner boosts John O’Shea’s chances of becoming Ireland boss
Troy Parrott scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner as John O’Shea’s Republic of Ireland U21s beat Hungary 1-0 in Tallaght Stadium. The victory boosts O’Shea’s chances of becoming the next Ireland boss, with the FAI set to interview candidates for the role in the coming weeks. O’Shea has been in charge of the U21s since 2018 and has a good track record with the young team. He led them to the semi-finals of the European Championships in 2019 and has also overseen their qualification for the 2023 tournament. O’Shea is one of several candidates in the running for the Ireland job, with former Ireland international Robbie Keane also thought to be interested. However, O’Shea’s victory over Hungary will have strengthened his case and he is now seen as the favourite for the role. Speaking after the game, O’Shea said he was “delighted” with the win and praised his players for their performance. “It was a tough game, but we showed great character and determination to get the win,” he said. “I’m really proud of the players and I think this victory will give us a lot of confidence going forward.” O’Shea is now expected to be interviewed for the Ireland job in the coming weeks and will be hoping to impress the FAI with his plans for the team.
