Ireland still in Republic picture despite fall-out with Kerr

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U-21 manager Don Givens insists Stephen Ireland’s prior fall-out with Brian Kerr will not block his path to again playing for his country.

Ireland had a bust-up with senior boss Kerr when he was U-17 coach three years ago, vowing then never again to play for the Republic if the 52-year-old remained involved.

But it is understood the Manchester City midfielder, who gave a man-of- the-match performance on his debut in the 2-0 victory over Everton on Sunday, is willing to put the past behind him.