Soccer:Richard Dunne and Darren O'Dea did not participate in full training for the Republic of Ireland this morning but manager Giovanni Trapattoni is confident that both players will be fit to face Armenia on Friday.
Dunne was only able to undertake some light jogging and was joined on the sidelines for most of the session by O'Dea, who had suffered a minor knee strain yesterday.
“I have optimism because I saw the team train well," the Italian said as the Irish squad prepared to make the long journey to Yerevan. "Richard Dunne and O’Dea feel better. Richard’s is a little injury but he’s confident that in 48 hours he will be recovered and will be with us.”
Ireland have been boosted by the news that Robbie Keane will also be available. Keane was sporting a knee brace at the first day of training in Malahide yesterday but trained without any support this morning.
Trapattoni admitted that Keane will be fully focussed on football after speculation linking him with a move from White Hart Lane ended as the transfer window closed last night.
“Robbie is mature," he added. "He is balancing his mind about football. He knows the situation. I’m selfish for Ireland at the moment, that he can play a few games.”
Trapattoni said that he expected a good performance from Keane as Ireland’s captain and praised the striker’s versatility.
“He is proud. I must say, he can play striker and also as one (lone striker) when we need. He can change his position, depending what’s happening on the pitch.”
Trapattoni also admitted that, as it stands, he is likely to begin with Paul Green partnering Glenn Whelan in central midfield.
“Today I tried Gibson with Whelan. I’ve also tried Green with Whelan. I’m sure it can also change. Today I can say 60 per cent Green. He is confident, he is a good personality, he’s fast, he’s quick, he has a good mentality.”
The Irish squad will arrive in Yerevan later this evening ahead of the first Euro 2012 qualifying game against Armenia which kicks off at 4pm (Irish time) on Friday.