IRELAND MANAGER GIOVANNI Trapattoni reckons skipper Robbie Keane can be his Francesco Totti.
The Boys in Green face the Czech Republic tomorrow at the Aviva Stadium with the LA Galaxy forward set to partner Shane Long up front.
After the Italian named his side, he explained that he expected Keane to play in a more withdrawn role.
“Two years ago, maybe three years ago I said about Robbie, Robbie can play like Totti. Remember? I said he can play in this position and he can play well.
“At this moment, I want to give Robbie the opportunity to play between the midfield and a striker, because he can read the game and feel how the game will be. Long is a player who can allow Robbie to play deep. For the last month, I have watched Spain and Croatia and other teams, and I want to try this. Tomorrow is a test of this situation. I think Robbie can do both jobs well.”
Keane will return to California after a successful loan spell with Aston Villa, having lined out in a similar position to that which Trap has identified. Kevin Doyle has returned to Wolves having failed a fitness test, meanwhile.
“O’Dowd also scored the only goal in Ireland’s 3-1 Uefa championship qualifying round loss to Andorra.” Sweet Jesus we didn’t loose to Andorra!
No, but we did lose to them.
I grew up listening to the songs his Granda Brendan sang. Brendan sang all the Percy French songs like the west Clare Railway and Gortnamona.
His grandfather was considered the best interpreter of the Percy French songbook. Cue the gang in France singing “Are you right there, Michael?” if he scores.
What about jack Byrne. Why doesn’t he get his chance in the warm up game. I’m sure he’ll be a future star for Ireland and the experience alone would benefit him going to the euros anyone agree??
Who would Byrne replace tho? This kid who got called up is a winger which we lack.. In central midfield we have a few who have there places nailed down.. I don’t know how good Byrne is to be honest is he better than the guys we have?
Probably replace Hoolahan?
I’m not saying he should be in instead of dis young fella fair play ta him getting called up great for him and his family. Jack byrne is a smashing footballer good to have as cover if hoolahan gets injured cause theres no more creativity in the squad
Martinez just sacked!
This is a story about a young lads exciting opportunity. Martinez getting sacked can wait for 5 minutes until that story appears. Well done to O Dowda. Hope he proves himself.