Bolton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has confirmed he will not participate in the Republic of Ireland's Nations League fixtures against Israel as a matter of "principle." The sides are set to face each other at the Nagyerdei Stadium in Debrecen, Hungary on Sunday. An emergency meeting was held after the Football Association of Ireland confirmed one player -- understood to be Bazunu -- told head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson of his intent to withdraw. Writing on Instagram, Bazunu stated his decision is based on his personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong, clarifying his stance is not against the Israeli people or the Jewish community, but against the atrocities in the region.

The Republic next travel to Dublin to play Austria, then face Israel again in Backa Topola, Serbia. Football Association of Ireland chief David Courell revealed the squad voted to continue with the fixtures. The Republic intend to wear black armbands and refrain from parts of the pre-match ceremony.