O'Shea: Gibson will be back

05 September 2012 10:16
John O'Shea has backed Darron Gibson to return to the Republic of Ireland squad in the not-too-distant future.

Gibson pulled himself out of Giovanni Trapattoni's plans for the start of 2014 World Cup qualifying, claiming he was not in the right state of mind after enduring a frustrating time Euro 2012 to compete internationally. Sunderland defender O'Shea, who played alongside the Everton midfielder during their time together at Old Tafford, understands Gibson's decision but is confident this is not the last Irish fans will see of the 24-year-old.

"I'm sure he will be back sooner rather than later," he said ahead of the meeting with Kazakhstan on Friday.

"I have not spoken to him but I spoke to the manager about it and they have had a chat and they have come up with this decision. "Darron felt he was not right at the minute to come in, but fingers crossed when he is ready he will be because he would be a good addition to the team."

Meanwhile, Trapattoni has echoed comments made by his assistant Marco Tardelli regarding Ireland's chances of coaxing Damien Duff out of international retirement. He said: "My philosophy is never say never. In the near future we will speak with him. I think he can change his opinion."

Source: team_talk