Mannus turns down international call
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Shamrock Rovers keeper Alan Mannus has made a tough call by confirming that he will not travel with the Northern Ireland squad for their tour of America.
The 27-year-old was included in Nigel Worthington's 18-man panel to take on Turkey and Chile in upcoming friendly games, although if he played in those games then he would miss crucial fixtures for The Hoops.
One of the games that the shot-stopper would have missed was the Dublin derby with Bohemians. So it is hardly surprising that he has announced that he won't be linking up for international duty.
"“I feel sympathy for Alan [Mannus] at having to miss this opportunity; however he did not want to miss any Rovers games, particularly at this stage of the season," said Rovers manager Michael O'Neill.
"He has been in fantastic form this season and I am sure he will be included in future Northern Ireland squads."
Mannus remains hopeful of adding to his four senior caps, although he feels it was the best option to stick with Rovers at this crucial period of the season.
"Although I am disappointed to miss out on the tour, my priority at this time is with my club. I look forward to being included in future Northern Ireland squads," he said.
The 27-year-old was included in Nigel Worthington's 18-man panel to take on Turkey and Chile in upcoming friendly games, although if he played in those games then he would miss crucial fixtures for The Hoops.
One of the games that the shot-stopper would have missed was the Dublin derby with Bohemians. So it is hardly surprising that he has announced that he won't be linking up for international duty.
"“I feel sympathy for Alan [Mannus] at having to miss this opportunity; however he did not want to miss any Rovers games, particularly at this stage of the season," said Rovers manager Michael O'Neill.
"He has been in fantastic form this season and I am sure he will be included in future Northern Ireland squads."
Mannus remains hopeful of adding to his four senior caps, although he feels it was the best option to stick with Rovers at this crucial period of the season.
"Although I am disappointed to miss out on the tour, my priority at this time is with my club. I look forward to being included in future Northern Ireland squads," he said.
