Duff and Co to lay ghost of Basel for revamped Ireland

THE dynamic Damien Duff yesterday cheered Irish spirits ahead of tonight’s critical World Cup tie by taking a full part in training and declaring himself fit to play against Switzerland in a game that has major undertones for both teams.

Duff’s availability, the emergence of the exciting Andy Reid and the presence of the hugely-experienced Roy Keane mean that Ireland are infinitely better placed than they were 12 months ago to score the win they need to head group four of the qualifying tournament.

By any reckoning Ireland’s prospects are so much better now than they were on that dismal night when they departed that European Championship series with a whimper.