Irish football’s division more than ever looks an anachronism
Tipping point: Brexit crisis could represent a chance for some positive Irish sporting unity
The Shamrock Rovers Ireland XI that faced then world champions Brazil in a friendly international at Lansdowne Road in 1973. Brazil won 4-3. Photograph: Connolly Collection/Sportsfile
There’s enough division about this Christmas to make season’s greetings of goodwill sound hollow. So with accord at a premium, and a New Year around the corner, how good a time is it for Irish soccer to grow up and unite.
Arguing for an All-Ireland football team is a crusty old trope. And wedging it into a Christmas context of peace and harmony risks mawkishness.