Robbie Keane on revenge

Revenge is very much on Robbie Keane’s mind as he prepares for tomorrow night’s Euro 2008 qualifier against Cyprus at Croke Park in Dublin.

Keane was part of the Republic of Ireland team who suffered one of the most humiliating defeats in their history just over a year ago when they were hammered 5-2 by the Cypriots in Nicosia.

And despite qualification from Group D being all but a mathematical impossibility, Keane has stressed the desire to hit back at his side’s tormentors that night has given him plenty of incentive.

Keane said: “What happened over there with a few of their players showboating a little bit when they knew the game was over, as a player you remember things like that and look forward to putting one over them.

“We still think about it because we’re only human beings. Of course in football you have to put things to bed but when it comes around you have to put it right. We remember it and we know we didn’t perform well.”

Republic boss Steve Staunton described the Cyprus defeat as a “nightmare” but said he would only look forward towards a game which, though meaningless in terms of qualification, could have a major bearing on his future.

“It was 12 months ago and it was a nightmare, end of story,” said Staunton. “It’s gone, it’s history. The only game we are analysing at the moment is Cyprus’ win against Wales.

“People forget Cyprus are good side. They have drawn with the Germans and could have beaten them, and they should have got something in the Czech Republic, so we know we’re in for a tough game.”

Saturday’s creditable goalless draw with Germany failed to lift the pressure on Staunton, who has lots to do to convince his critics he deserves to stay in charge for the remaining two years of his contract.

But the often prickly Staunton is sticking resolutely to his guns and says his desire to secure a win and ultimately clinch third place in Group D will over-ride any desire to entertain.

Staunton added: “We have to win the game, it’s as simple as that because we’re at home and we want to finish third in the group.

“Obviously we’d love to do it in style but you can’t guarantee that. We need to win the game, end of story.”

Staunton has plenty of selection dilemmas, chief among them the fitness of Andy Reid, who produced a magnificent performance in central midfield against Germany.

The Charlton man is battling an ankle injury and played no part in today’s training session at Croke Park. He faces a late fitness test to determine whether he can line up against the Cypriots.

Richard Dunne and Lee Carsley both miss out through suspension although Paul McShane is back in contention and John O’Shea is also expected to be passed fit after his recent ankle injury.

If Reid is unfit, his place in midfield could go to Wolves prospect Darren Potter, who has recovered from his recent persistent hamstring problem, and is clearly a favourite of Staunton.

Staunton added: “I think Darren Potter will be a wonderful player for us. He’s very comfortable on the ball and he’s positive. He knows where the goal is and he’s not frightened to get forward either.

“Darren is one for the future. Unfortunately he hasn’t played too much football over the past month but he looks as if he wants to play and as long as there is no reaction he is up for selection.”