Shop talk

The world Cup is the greatest shop window in sport and for many of Ireland’s oriental adventurers, the tournament could trigger the transfer move their careers require, argues Bill George.

ROBBIE KEANE was unique among centre- forwards at the World Cup for prior to Sunday’s final he was the only player to beat the remarkable German goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn. Keane’s memorable strike provided Ireland with what was the most memorable and enduring moment of their eventful campaign. That was not the sparkling Keane’s only highpoint of the tournament. He was as bright as a newly minted coin throughout a World Cup that surely marked a new reference point for Ireland on the international stage.