The Ferenc Puskas Stadium in Budapest has long been due for demolition but with its marble halls still echoing to the legendary achievements of yesteryear, it’s a place of fading grandeur which still has the power to evoke fantasy football.

Robbie Keane is happy for the Republic of Ireland to be cast in the role of underdogs at Euro 2012.

The Republic of Ireland’s schedule for the build-up to the European Championship finals has been finalised, with confirmation from the FAI that Giovanni Trapattoni’s team will take on Hungary in a friendly in Budapest on June 4.

Hungary 0 Holland 4

Liverpool tried desperately last night to put a brave face on their first Champions League exit at the group stages for six years.

Liverpool have Glen Johnson and Fabio Aurelio back from injury and in their starting line-up at the Ferenc Puskas Stadium for a Champions League match they must win to have any chance of staying in the competition beyond the group stages.

JOAQUÍN BOTERO netted a hat-trick to help Bolivia hammer Argentina 6-1 and keep their slim 2010 World Cup hopes alive last night.

Denmark remain top of World Cup Group One ahead of Hungary on goal difference after a 3-0 victory over Albania.

MARTYN Margetson is relishing Wales’ friendly in Hungary after 10 years in the international wilderness.

MANCHESTER United defender Wes Brown has been ruled out for three months after a scan revealed he fractured his right ankle in their shock Champions League defeat to Zalaergeszegi.