Kenny gets Kerr call-up

NICK COLGAN’S misfortune became Paddy Kenny’s opportunity yesterday as Brian Kerr called the Sheffield United shot-stopper into the Irish squad for the first time, ahead of next week’s much-anticipated friendly with Brazil.

Kenny shot into the limelight last season, playing a starring role in Neil Warnock’s side’s eventful cup runs. Since then, there has been an under-current of opinion that Kenny, 25, born in Halifax of Irish parentage, should be given his chance, particularly in light of Colgan’s recent injury and club problems.

“He is regarded among the top keepers in Division One, and I have spoken to both Neil Warnock and David Kelly at length about Paddy. They both regard him as one of the most important reasons they had such a good season last year,” said Kerr.