FOOTBALL DAILY: 'It is important that our voice was heard' Lopes on Israel debacle, Courell acting on best interests of Irish football, and Towell on the man that is Liam Rosenior

On Thursday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings you news of Ireland's game with Israel, plus the PFAI response, and also a look back at last night's action in Europe, plus a look ahead to tonight's Europa League action.FAI CEO David Courell insists Ireland will fulfil their international fixtures against Israel despite growing calls for a boycott, saying the association must act in the best interests of Irish football.Players’ voices enter the debate as the PFAI reveals 63% of surveyed members oppose playing Israel, with Shamrock Rovers captain Pico Lopes urging respect for players’ opinions.Fallout continues from flare incidents at Oriel Park, with Courell condemning the scenes and government funding for League of Ireland artificial pitches paused as a result.Government reaction examined as Junior Minister Charlie McConalogue addresses the controversial decision to halt funding across the entire League of Ireland.Attention turns to Dalymount Park, where Bohemians prepare for an emotional final season at their historic home with a huge derby clash against Shamrock Rovers.Vinny Perth and Gareth McGlynn discuss Derry City’s slow start and debate where James McClean best fits into Tiernan Lynch’s plans on the LOI Pod.Champions League drama as Galatasaray survive a Juventus comeback thriller to progress to the last-16 after a seven-goal aggregate battle.Holders PSG edge past Monaco in an all-French clash, while Real Madrid overcome Benfica and Atalanta complete a stunning comeback to stay alive in Europe.Focus shifts to the Europa League, where Celtic boss Martin O’Neill balances squad rotation with belief ahead of a tough second leg against Stuttgart.Nottingham Forest take a commanding lead into their clash with Fenerbahce, but manager Vitor Pereira warns his players not to become complacent.Conference League storylines include Troy Parrott aiming to fire AZ Alkmaar to qualification and Crystal Palace pushing to stay competitive across multiple fronts.Richie Towell reflects on his experiences alongside Liam Rosenior, offering insight into the mindset and qualities of the current Chelsea manager.Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join