Coleman calls for a stronger mentality as Ireland prepares for clash with England

Seamus Coleman has rejected the idea that the Ireland team is "too nice", though he acknowledges that the squad could benefit from developing a more resilient mentality ahead of Saturday's UEFA Nations League match against England at the Aviva Stadium.

The Ireland captain was addressing comments made by new manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, who, during a fans' event, remarked, "I think the first impression of the players is really good team players, really good characters, maybe a little bit too nice."

This statement was followed by a remark about the need for a "b*****d" in the team, which was later clarified as being taken out of context. Coleman believes that the "too nice" label was similarly misinterpreted.

"Ah, it was taken maybe a bit out of context," Coleman said during the pre-match press conference.

"There’s nothing wrong with being too nice around the place, but you don’t reach this level without having a bit of bite."

He mentioned that he’s already spoken to the younger players about the importance of qualifying for tournaments, explaining that he believes the manager's comments were meant in that context. "To get to that level, you need something else in your locker," he added.

However, Coleman did concede that the team might need to adjust their mindset in future campaigns to return to major tournaments, starting with the match at Lansdowne Road on Saturday evening.

"We do need to understand why we are here," he said. "It’s not just about earning caps; it’s about making the country proud. The fans are desperate for [tournaments], and they deserve to be there.

"That’s the ultimate goal as an international player. When it’s all said and done, you put your feet up and you’re retired, we’ll look back on the memories of France 2016.

"I think that’s where this group, the younger lads, should be aiming—to get to major tournaments, because that’s why we do it, that’s where you want to be.

"We have to toughen up our mindset to qualify."