Manager Martin O’Neill still chose to name the 143-times capped player in his 23-man squad but Keane concedes their Group E opener against the Swedes on June 13 could come just too soon for him.
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“But we can organise games while we are out in France, we have a little bit of time if that’s the case – and even before that because we have got a week’s training to do here”.
Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane has admitted he feared the worst when he suffered a calf injury on the eve of the Euro 2016 finals.
O’Neill gave lots of players a chance to stake a claim for a place in his squad, but the only stand-out was striker Long, who was already in line for a seat on the plane to France. “It’s a reality check for one or two players who thought they were good players”.
Striker Jon Walters is the latest Ireland player to pick up an injury heading into the European Championships.
Ireland end their group matches on June 22nd against Italy in Lille.
The experienced goalkeeper became the first Cherries player in 26 years to earn selection for a major worldwide tournament when he was named in the Poland squad.
“Whatever about excuses, “I’ve not played much football – blah, blah, blah – I’m carrying knocks”, I’m anxious when players aren’t carrying knocks”. You can still physically get into decent shape.
Keane, who has been linked with the vacant manager’s job at the City Ground was also less than complimentary about players who carry knocks, he added: “I’m anxious when players aren’t carrying knocks”. But luckily for me, it’s not as bad as I first thought.
There was a significant name on the teamsheet as 40-year-old Shay Given earned his 134th cap and in the process, established himself as Ireland’s longest serving global as he broke Johnny Giles’ record of 19 years and 202 days, with his stint now standing at 20 years and 65 days.
“We went into the competition, played very, very strongly, beat Spain, got through to the quarter-finals, and it was a phenomenal tournament for us, really, really great”.
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‘You play three matches, start with Sweden, and you go for it.
