Kerr needs partner for Keane

IRELAND’S win over Canada brought into sharp focus the two most pressing problems that will occupy much of manager Brian Kerr’s attention over the coming months — the need to find a strike partner for Robbie Keane and to develop a flexible, but more structured, game plan.

The match highlighted once again the obvious importance of friendly internationals. Canada, ranked 83rd in the World by FIFA, were suitably grateful for the contest as they strive to establish themselves on the world stage while Ireland's management team must have learnt a lot.

The positive lessons revolved around the contributions from the exciting Andy Reid (Nottingham Forest) in midfield and Richard Dunne (Manchester City) at centre-back.