Keane: France should offer replay 'in the interest of fair play'

Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane called on the French Football Federation to replay the World Cup qualification play-off.

His call comes after French captain Thierry Henry’s acceptance of a replay as the fairest solution.

Keane said: “On behalf of the Republic of Ireland players, I would like to thank Thierry Henry for his statement this afternoon that in his opinion a replay would be the fairest option.

“As captain of the French team, to make such a statement took courage and honour, and all of us recognise that.

“As captain of the Republic of Ireland team, I would also be happy for a replay to happen in the interest of fair play so that whichever team qualifies, can do so with their heads held high.

“We can only hope that the French Football Federation might accept the wishes of both captains in the best interests of the game.”