Doyle undaunted by Ireland's task

Potential Republic of Ireland debutant Kevin Doyle displayed the fearless attitude boss Brian Kerr’s side will require if they are to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Within half an hour of his first training session with Ireland’s stars, and ahead of a critical qualifying double-header for the Republic and Kerr, Reading striker Doyle was then thrust into the full glare of the media spotlight.

Clinton Morrison’s suspension for Saturday’s Group Four clash with Cyprus in Nicosia, in conjunction with his own rise to prominence with the Royals since an £80,000 (€118,000) move from eircom League side Cork City in June, have led to his sudden elevation into the senior set-up.

After believing he had missed out on the Under-21 squad, Doyle even booked flights home to Ireland for this weekend and was all set to watch the Cypriot match on television, only to get the nod from Kerr a couple of days later.

The 22-year-old joins the squad with the pressure high as Ireland must beat Cyprus and Switzerland at Lansdowne Road next Wednesday to stand a chance of at least a play-off place.

The speculation suggests if Ireland fail to qualify for next summer’s finals in Germany, Kerr will be out of a job, yet a confident Doyle – after conceding to no nerves in training – has no doubts the Republic will win through.

“Ireland have played well all along, although we have been unlucky at times, but if we keep that up then we should win both games to clinch a play-off place. That’s what we are looking for,” said Doyle.

“We know how important these games are. If we win them then we are more than likely in the play-offs, which could lead to the World Cup, and that in turn would be a massive boost for the country.

“We did it in 2002, 1994 and 1990. It was massive for the country then, and it would be fantastic if we could do it again.

“All the players in the squad are aware of it, and if we can play like we can then I am sure it will be no problem.

“If we are to swing it, then it will come down to all 11 players who play if everyone has an equal part, and anyone could win it for us on the day.”

Despite being forced to jump into the deep end, Doyle is relishing the attention, adding: “Any time is always a good time for your first call-up, and with more focus on these games, it’s probably even better for me.

“I am happy to revel in the limelight because this is the kind of moment I have been waiting for.

“Anyone would enjoy being called into the squad for two tough games at the end of which we will have hopefully qualified for the World Cup.

“If I manage to play in either game, it would be amazing. For any player earning their first cap is an honour, and if it happens to me then I will be absolutely delighted.”

Kerr was faced with six no-shows for yesterday’s first training session, although goalkeepers Shay Given of Newcastle and Dundee United’s Nick Colgan, along with Everton midfielder Kevin Kilbane were all given dispensation to arrive late.

Newcastle defender Stephen Carr is due in today after suffering a family bereavement, while Sunderland centre-back Gary Breen is a doubt at this early stage with a calf strain.

Liverpool defender Steve Finnan is also struggling with a sore knee.