Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sun 29 March 2026 13:30, UK

James Morrison could receive a boost for West Bromwich Albion’s relegation fight, with Jayson Molumby potentially being rested by Ireland.

Molumby faced heartbreak earlier in the international break, with his nation’s World Cup hopes ending after defeat by penalties to Czechia.

The Baggies midfielder was one of the better players on the pitch for Ireland, battling well for 115 minutes in Prague.

As Morrison has started a resurgence at The Hawthorns, Molumby has also been a key figure in that.

Now, with Heimir Hallgrimsson’s latest comments ahead of Ireland’s next fixture emerging, the Baggies head coach could get some relief for the Championship relegation fight.

What did Heimir Hallgrimsson say about Jayson Molumby?

Hallgrimsson did not refer to Molumby by name, but the Ireland head coach did suggest that players of Molumby’s presence in the squad could be rested.

It opens the door for Irish fringe players to make a case for themselves and for West Brom, one of their key figures, to get a rest ahead of the relegation run-in.

Speaking in the build-up to Ireland’s game against North Macedonia, Hallgrimsson stated that there will be changes to his side as he looks to get to know more of his players.

He said: “What I have said, and I have been consistent in this, is that we have been playing really important games, so there has been no chance to try players and take risks, or whatever you want to call it.

“But now it’s not much at stake, so if I am being consistent, now is the time to give some players a chance.”

With it being a friendly, it would make sense for the West Brom man to make way for a fresher name, with Molumby making himself key for his country.

Additionally, news of his omission would be widely welcomed in B71, as Molumby is sixth among the Baggies squad for minutes played.

What are the chances Jayson Molumby is part of those dropped for Ireland?

With Molumby playing 115 minutes against Czechia, Morrison will hope that the midfielder is among those changes that come on Tuesday evening.

Ipswich midfielder Jack Taylor has returned to England for personal reasons, meaning that one midfield spot is likely to be different against North Macedonia.

However, the Irish national team has plenty of other central midfielders called up. Stoke City’s Bosun Lawal was not in the 23-man squad for the World Cup play-off but was called up for this camp.

Additionally, Alan Browne may get the nod in the middle, despite missing a crucial spot kick against Czechia.

Jason Knight is another who could start ahead of Molumby in the middle for the Boys in Green.

Hallgrimsson is not short of choices, and Morrison will be hoping he rests the West Brom midfielder.