Double boost for Irish

Keane & Dunne fit to play; Green set for start

Last updated: 2nd September 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Double boost for Irish

Keane & Dunne fit to play

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Republic of Ireland have been handed a boost with the news Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne have been declared fit for the clash with Armenia.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side get their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign underway in Armenia on Friday and key duo Keane and Dunne have shaken off knocks to take their place in the starting XI.

Irish skipper Keane had been struggling with a knee problem, while Dunne was suffering with a leg injury.

Darren O'Dea could also be involved despite missing training on Wednesday after picking up a knock on Tuesday.

"I am optimistic. As a precaution, we left Richard and also Darren out of training, but I am optimistic because we have 48 hours," said Trapattoni.

"Richard I am sure about - and also it is possible Darren could be on the bench.

"Richard still has this knock in the muscle, but hopefully tomorrow, he will train with us."

Trapattoni also revealed Derby midfielder Paul Green is poised to start his first competitive game for Ireland after impressing in recent friendlies.

"Paul is confident, he has good personality," added Trapattoni. "He's fast, he's quick and I like his mentality.

"We have other players and today (in training) I tried Gibson with Whelan. I'm sure I can change but today I can say 60 per cent it will be Green."