Injured Gibson pulls out of Ireland squad

Everton midfielder Darron Gibson has withdrawn from the Republic of Ireland squad to face the Czech Republic next week.

The former Manchester United player had been included in Giovanni Trapattoni’s 26-man squad for the friendly at the Aviva Stadium on February 29.

However, Everton last night ave announced he had sustained a knee injury, which is currently being assessed.

Gibson has played seven games for Everton since joining the club from Manchester United and he is yet to taste defeat with the Toffees.

The 24-year-old had been due to accompany club team-mates Seamus Coleman and Shane Duffy to Dublin for Wednesday’s friendly.

Meanwhile Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has not ruled out making a permanent move for Robbie Keane in the summer, after the Irishman impressed during his loan spell at Villa Park.

Keane plays his last game for Villa against Wigan this weekend, having scored three goals in six games during his time at the club.

McLeish believes the signing has been a success, and added that there could be scope for a deal in the close season.

He said: “Who knows? We just need to wait and see what happens between now and then.”

McLeish added: “Robbie’s been a breath of fresh air. He’s a good leader, he’s a talker, and he’s a very good footballer.

“It’s been great to have him around, and hopefully, some of his influences have rubbed off on some of the younger players.

“Maybe we’ve forged a relationship now, and hopefully Robbie thinks of us first if he’s going to do this again next season.”