Stephen Kenny hoping for bill of clean health before Slovakia clash

It's an encouraging state of affairs ahead of tomorrow week's crucial encounter in Bratislava

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny during his squad announcement press conference at FAI Headquarters in Abbotstown, Dublin. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Stephen Kenny sounded like a man largely happy with his lot as he announced the 25 players he hopes can excavate what would be an “extraordinary” win away to Slovakia in next week's Euro 2020 playoff semi-final.

Most of those named played a part in his opening two games against Bulgaria and Finland earlier this month and the majority have brushed the pre-season cobwebs out of their systems thanks to a run of games with their clubs.