'It’s massive having Caoimhín for penalties': Hallgrímsson hails Cork man Kelleher's influence 

Kelleher has saved three Premier League penalties since moving from Liverpool at the start of the season. He also denied Cristiano Ronaldo from the spot in Ireland’s visit to Portugal last October.

PARTY PIECE: Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher saves Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty.  Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Heimir Hallgrímsson says the presence of penalty save king Caoimhín Kelleher boosts Ireland’s prospects if Thursday’s World Cup playoff semi-final is decided by penalties.

Czechia are slight favourites to progress into next Tuesday’s decider against either Denmark and North Macedonia but have new manager and captain following a period of upheaval.