Kevin Kilbane says Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane can take the heat off players

Kevin Kilbane believes Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane could prove to be the Republic of Ireland’s aces in the pack at this summer’s European Championship.

Manager Martin O’Neill will be assisted by former Manchester United captain Roy Keane as Ireland look to battle out of a tough group.

Having qualified via the play-offs, O’Neill’s men will compete in Group E alongside Italy, Sweden and Belgium knowing they must shake off the underdog tag to make it further in the competition.