McCarthy surprised but pleased by Keane’s longevity

The battle between two of Mick McCarthy’s former sharp-shooters, Robbie Keane and Steven Fletcher, could prove decisive in Friday’s Euro 2016 Group D tie at Celtic Park.

While the former Ireland manager is thrilled to see a 34-year-old Keane defy even his forecast by continuing to operate at international level, he’s cautioned the visitors about the threat posed by Fletcher.

Although Fletcher’s return of just one goal at international level is a stratosphere away from Keane’s 65, the Scotland striker does hold a the fillip of current Premier League pedigree over Keane.