Reid has score to settle after Tel Aviv stunner

AS the Republic of Ireland squad availed of a free day yesterday before reconvening this evening at their Portmarnock base, players have been reflecting on the experience of warming-up at Celtic Park for the real tests to come against Israel and the Faroe Islands.

To that end, Spurs' Andy Reid thought that Sunday's Jackie McNamara testimonial, which the Irish won 1-0, served a dual purpose.

"It was a brilliant experience, with an amazing turn-out, and I think it was a fitting tribute to a great servant of Celtic," he said. "It was nice for Jackie and the fans to see the likes of Henrik Larsson back in Celtic Park as well. It was a good day all round.