Jamie Finn last night put her World Cup heartache behind her and pledged to get behind Ireland in this summer’s World Cup.
The Birmingham City midfielder, reacting to her shock exclusion, wrote on social media about having to deal with “unforeseen setbacks” in elite sport.
She will still travel to Australia with Vera Pauw’s squad and could yet be called up in the event of an injury to one of the 23 players selected for the tournament.
Finn wrote: “Today has been a historic day for women’s football in Ireland and a day of mixed emotions for me personally.
“People know I wear my heart on my sleeve whenever I play and I will continue to do so going forward.
“Representing your country is the biggest honour anyone can have. I feel so privileged to have been part of this squad since the beginning of our World Cup campaign.
“Elite sport is difficult and sometimes people have unforeseen setbacks. I will continue, as I always have, to work hard representing my country to make my dreams a reality and inspire the next generation of girls to do the same.
“I am grateful to be named as a training player and will continue to play my part as the Republic of Ireland prepare for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
“As always the girls and the staff have my full support and commitment.
“I’d like to thank my family, friends and fans in Ireland and Birmingham for their support today and always.”
Finn wasn’t the only player to react on social media to the squad announcement.
Ireland captain Katie McCabe tweeted: “It’s all starting to sink in… an honour to be selected to represent our country at our first ever WC.”
Veteran centre-half Louise Quinn wrote: “Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I'd be able to say I am going to a World Cup!
“It's a long way from those brown shorts in the back garden! A dream come true.”
Bristol City defender Chloe Mustaki capped a promotion-winning campaign with a call-up and she said: “An incredible honour & privilege to be representing Ireland at the Women’s World Cup this summer.”
Mustaki, who has fought back from injuries and health problems during her career, added: “Never. Give. Up. You might just…”
Denise O’Sullivan jetted in this week from the USA. She had a message for the players that didn’t get selected.
“An absolute honour but feeling a bit numb for those left behind. You have all played a massive part in our journey, never forget that,” wrote the Cork native.
English-born Birmingham City ace Lucy Quinn referenced her Irish roots. “Very proud to be representing Sligo.”
Heather Payne said: “Incredibly honoured to be representing Ireland at the Women’s World Cup this summer.”
Claire O’Riordan scored her first senior Ireland goal in last week’s 3-2 win over Zambia and she tweeted: “Irish down under Off to the FIFA Women’s World Cup we go.”
Qualified doctor Ciara Grant has also been included, after a fine season at Hearts.
She wrote: “It's my biggest honour to represent my family and this amazing Country at the FIFA Women’s World Cup next Month. Beyond Proud.”
And goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan said: “Truly a dream come true. So proud to represent Ireland in our first ever World Cup.”
Brosnan was celebrating on the double as her contract with Everton was extended until the end of 2024.
“I’m really excited and happy to have extended my time at Everton,” she wrote.
“Last season was excellent, with a great group of girls and seeing the progress we made.
“I’m excited to be back next season and hopefully continue on that path and keep on improving.
“Everton is a fantastic club, with great ambition so it’s good to be a part of.
“It’s really exciting to be able to come in every day and see the progress we have made and push together towards our goals.
“It’s something I love being a part of and I’m looking forward to next season to continue on that path.”
