Martin O'Neill has confirmed that he will name his final 23 man squad for Euro 2016 on 28th of May, the day after Ireland's final scheduled friendly against the Netherlands in Dublin and three days before the UEFA deadline.
Speaking after training yesterday, O'Neill confirmed that the game against the Dutch will be the final chance for him to assess his options before the final squad list is submitted. However, that doesn't mean that game will be the final chance to see the team before they head to France.
O'Neill takes his final side down to the Fota Island resort in Cork between May 3oth and June 3rd and it is now thought that a final preparation game will be played in Turners Cross with permission being granted to hold only the first Irish international in Cork since a 0-0 draw with Spain at Flower Lodge in 1985.
O'Neill's confirmation that his final squad will not be named until after the Dutch game will be good news for the likes of Harry Arter with one more game available to ensure the Bournemouth man will have the opportunity to show that he can bring his club form to the international scene.
As for the identity of the nation that will be given the opportunity to become just the third side to play a friendly against Ireland in Cork, the Irish Mirror are today suggesting that Belarus are the most likely opponents. The Eastern European side face Northern Ireland on May 27th and it is thought they may well make the trip south to take on Martin O'Neill's charges on May 31st.
