Szmodics 'doesn't fit in' to new Ireland way

Keith Treacy believes Sammie Szmodics does not merit a recall to the Republic of Ireland squad despite the increasingly depleted nature of the forward line.

With the World Cup play-off semi-final against Czech Republic in Prague looming large, Heimir Hallgrimsson has concerns in attacking areas and will have his fingers crossed that Troy Parrott is wrapped in cotton wool between now and 26 March.

Evan Ferguson was ruled out for the foreseeable at the weekend, while Adam Idah is also yet to kick a ball in earnest in 2026 due to his own injury, leaving his availability uncertain.

Meanwhile, Chiedozie Ogbene, who is often used alongside the main centre-forward, has only played 20 minutes of football for Sheffield United since returning from injury and winger Mikey Johnston is also out with an ankle issue.

The options to provide cover for Parrott have started to become thin on the ground, although Johnny Kenny has got off the mark since signing on loan at League One side Bolton.

Bristol City's Sinclair Armstrong and Sheffield United's Tom Cannon may also come into consideration.

A recall for Derby County loanee Szmodics also appears on the cards. Since joining the Rams in January, the 30-year-old has played regularly with one goal to his name in five Championship appearances.

According to newspaper reports, Hallgrimsson had been over to see him last week.

The versatile forward left parent club Ipswich Town during the January transfer window, with Tractor Boys manager Kieran McKenna citing "dressing room culture" as a factor.

"In the end it wasn't a football decision, it wasn't related to his football performance," McKenna said of the decision to let Szmodics go to Derby.

"It was a decision that was made in the best interests of our group dynamic, of our dressing room culture, of the values of our dressing room and of our team.

"In those respects the decision was made that it was best that Sammie wouldn't be with us for the rest of the season."

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Meanwhile, Szmodics' availability - or lack of it - for Ireland during 2025 was a bone of contention in some quarters.

The main point raised was that the player pulled out of consecutive internationals windows before subsequently featuring for his club days later.

Speaking on this week's RTÉ Soccer Podcast, ex-Ireland winger Treacy said he wasn't overly keen on calling up Szmodics for Prague and a potential play-off final days later despite the dwindling options available up front.

"We're a little bit short. Adam Idah hasn't played this year, Ogbene has played 20 minutes since the Hungary game," he said.

"Johnny Kenny is at Bolton in League One and Szmodics... I know people are saying they would have Szmodics back in, (but) I think he's hummed and hawed too much and he's missed games for Ireland and he's played for his club within two or three days. That to me is prioritising club over country."

However, Treacy feels the main reason for forgoing a recall for Szmodics would be more related to tactical considerations.

"I think the style of play we've come across now in the three wins we've had on the bounce, Szmodics doesn't fit into that," he said.

"We've five at the back, three in midfield, (Finn) Azaz maybe in the 10 and Parrott up front. Szmodics doesn't fit in anywhere there for me.

"I wouldn't have Sammie Szmodics in there. I would give someone else a chance."

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