Caitlin Hayes makes international decision that is likely to be popular with the Celtic support
The English-born defender, who turned 28 on Friday, has been training with the full Ireland squad this week. Yet, her switch wasn’t confirmed until confirmation of her Irish citizenship came through on her birthday.
As reported by the Irish Independent, Hayes has been chasing the move for a fair amount of time. Her grandfather James is from Offaly, and that allows her to make the switch.
Hayes could be thrust right into the limelight in a pretty big game for her new country. The Republic of Ireland face Northern Ireland on Saturday afternoon in their opening Nations League clash.
What makes the fixture even more appealing is that it’s being held at the Aviva Stadium — the first time the women’s side have ever played in Ireland’s national stadium. (Balls)
Hayes has, of course, gained plenty of big match experience at Celtic over the past 12 months. She’s played in league-defining matches, a cup final, Champions League qualifiers and in front of thousands at Celtic Park.
So she should be just fine even if the last week may have been a bit of a whirlwind.
“Words can never comprehend it or explain how that feels,” she said ahead of the game. “If the opportunity comes, then I’m over the moon, but just grateful for the team to be on that stage. It’s where they belong, and yeah, I’m excited for the day in whatever capacity it will bring.” (Irish Independent)
With Celtic’s proud links with Ireland, going back all the way to the founding of the club, this is a move that will be popular with the Hoops support.
Hundreds of Israeli civilians were murdered, and around 100 taken hostage, during a surprise incursion into Israel from Gaza early on Saturday morning.
Hundreds more people have been killed as a result of retaliatory airstrikes on Gaza by the Israeli air force.
At Celtic Park on Saturday afternoon, a section of the supporters displayed several Palestinian flags and a large banner which read: ‘Free Palestine. Victory To The Resistance!!’.
The display prompted former Celtic player and Israel international Nir Bitton to accuse the fans involved of being “brainwashed” – the current Maccabi Tel Aviv midfielder adding: “Shame on you!!! Yes free Gaza from Hamas not from Israel!
“Supporting terror organisation who’s proudly celebrating the slaughtering of families is absolutely crazy!! Embarrassing.”
His post on Instagram went on to say: “Most of you don’t even know where Israel is!! You have zero clue about this conflict and you still act like you know everything.”
The club has now added its voice to the condemnation, saying the display of the banners do “not represent the views of Celtic Football Club and we disassociate ourselves from them”.
In a statement on Monday evening, the club added: “We condemn the display of such messages at Celtic Park. Celtic is a football club and not a political organisation. One of our core values from inception is to be open to all regardless of race, colour, politics or creed.
“That is why the Club has always made clear that political messages and banners are not welcome at Celtic Park, or any match involving Celtic. At a time of loss and suffering for many, it is entirely inappropriate for any group of individuals to use Celtic Park as a vehicle for such messages.”
The statement concludes: “We call on all supporters, regardless of their personal views, to unite in backing our players and the Club while respecting the rights and beliefs of others; particularly those whose lives are affected by violence and hatred.”
According to reports, the Celtic board have also held talks with their current Israeli player, 22-year-old winger Liel Abada, regarding the matter.
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