Republic of Ireland winger Chiedozie Ogbene has asked the public not to pressure players over calls to boycott upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. He said footballers should not be expected to resolve complex political issues, while confirming the squad will discuss its approach before Sunday’s fixture.

Ireland face Israel in Debrecen on Sunday and again in Serbia on 4 October, amid protests linked to the conflict in Gaza. Ogbene also rejected suggestions the controversy affected Ireland’s 1-0 defeat by Kosovo, admitting the team’s performance was poor and that he should have converted a first-half opportunity.