Duff handed free role

Damien Duff was handed a free role for the Republic of Ireland today in manager Brian Kerr’s first competitive match at home since taking charge in January.

The Blackburn winger was picked to play in the hole behind Tottenham striker Robbie Keane and David Connolly of Wimbledon in an otherwise predictable line-up.

Euro 2004 Group Ten qualifying opponents Albania fielded the same team which shared a goalless draw with the Irish in Tirana in April.