Keane ok as Ireland find ideal antidote to the bumps and bruises

A WALK in the sea off Portmarnock proved the perfect antidote for Ireland's World Cup stars who suffered the bumps and bruises of World Cup competition in the Stade de France.

Ireland's assistant manager, Chris Hughton led his squad of players into the surf on their return to their Portmarnock base on Sunday and, in consequence, all 22 players were able to take part in yesterday's training session.

Three of the players elected not to engage in the customary match that brought the session to a close - Roy Keane, Stephen Carr and John O'Shea. Brian Kerr confirmed that all three would be fit to play against the Faroe Islands tomorrow at Lansdowne Road (7.30 pm).