New era for Keane in green

ROY KEANE yesterday stressed that his return to international duty after a two-year absence was to help Ireland qualify for the World Cup finals in Germany in 2006.

Keane, who came through a training session and fitness test yesterday, is virtually certain to play part of the Republic's friendly against Romania at Lansdowne Road tonight (7.30 pm).

Manager Brian Kerr said he will wait to see whether there is any adverse reaction overnight from Keane's injured knee and thigh before finalising his team selection.