Stan: Bobby wanted to go to Germany

Ireland manager Steve Staunton has revealed that Bobby Robson was keen to join the international side for their game against Germany despite his planned surgery for a brain tumour.

The legendary boss, currently acting as a consultant to Staunton, is due to undergo surgery on Wednesday to remove the tumour which was discovered after he was taken ill during Ipswich’s game against Crystal Palace.

Ireland face a tough prospect against the World Cup semi-finalists on Saturday and Staunton has revealed that the evergreen Robson was ready to travel to Stuttgart despite his current medical problems.

“I am in communication with Bobby on a very regular basis,” said Staunton. “It is typical of the man that he wanted to be here to take a bit of the heat off myself, but I think the medics advised him against it.

“He is going to have his operation on Wednesday, and he sees himself as being out this weekend.

“But I don’t think any medical person in the world would advise you to start flying after an operation in your head, and put yourself under the strains and pressures of the week that would follow.

“But he is very upbeat and looking forward to the October trip when we face Cyprus. He cannot wait to get out there.”

Staunton also paid tribute to his mentor for looking squarely at the positives following the 4-0 friendly defeat at the hands of Holland.

“He was so buoyant after the game, telling me to forget the first half, which you have to a degree because it was so disappointing,” added Staunton.

Meanwhile, Sheffield United goalkeeper Kenny has been forced to withdraw from the squad with a thigh injury.

Birmingham City defender Kelly is struggling with a calf problem and he will not make the trip to Stuttgart.

Republic boss Steve Staunton has called up Barnsley goalkeeper Nick Colgan and Preston defender Sean St. Ledger as replacements for the injured duo.

It is St. Ledger’s first call-up to the senior side and both players will link up with the squad on Wednesday.

Article courtesy of the Evening Echo newspaper.