We were required to submit our Europa League squad for the play off round by midnight Monday and while I’ve waited for that information to filter through, part of me has wondered whether discussions about that squad could have been a catalyst for Martin O’Neill walking out.

I don’t know whether that was the case, I don’t know whether it was rushed through after MON walked, but at the moment it appears that Nathan Delfouneso and Marc Albrighton have not been listed in the squad for some reason:-

Edit: it’s been pointed out to me that Delfouneso and Albrighton will feature on the “B list” as they’re under 21, of which we can have an unlimited number of players and are not required to name it until 24 hours before the match. Usually the B list players are shown on the UEFA website, but as we haven’t entered the competition yet I suppose that is not relevant.

I jumped the gun somewhat there, massive apologies.

The Squad

Clearly there’s a mistake somewhere, but I don’t know if it lies with the club failing to include these players or UEFA have erred on their website.  There’s only 21 players there and Eric Lichaj is also missing free after signing a new contract, while injured Fabian Delph is on the list.

Man City have set a few tongues wagging with their 23 man squad which excludes Ireland, Bellamy and Jo, but includes Robinho.

Remember, this is only for the two games against Rapid Vienna, we get to submit a new squad for the group stage, assuming we make it, so this isn’t the end of the world.   All the key dates for draws, squad submission and fixtures are on the Europa League page.

If a genuine error as occurred, I will definitely follow up this post, but as it stands it looks like some of our brighter young players will not be able to play against Rapid Vienna. Edit: A genuine error did occur, but it was mine. Sorry.