Ireland v Cameroon: Where the match could be won or lost
Without a shadow of a doubt, Ireland’s midfield has been considerably weakened by the loss of fiery, charismatic captain Roy Keane.
Keane’s no-holds-barred approach on the pitch extended off it with his verbal assault on manager Mick McCarthy last week which led to his immediate expulsion from the squad.
Much will now depend on new central midfield duo Matt Holland, and in particular Mark Kinsella, if the Republic are to have any chance of progressing from Group E.
All eyes are likely to be focused on Charlton star Kinsella as he steps into the breach created by the departure of Keane.
If Holland and Kinsella can quickly form a bond and hold the midfield together, then it will gave Jason McAteer and Kevin Kilbane the scope to operate down the wings and in turn find front-line duo Robbie Keane and Damien Duff.
The latter is tipped by McCarthy to be one of the stars of the World Cup with his pace and skill, although he is let down by the fact he has scored just one goal in his 26 international appearances.
McCarthy has raved about the fact Duff and Keane, given their stature, speed and technique, have the ability to tie any defence in knots, although the Leeds striker could do with some back-up in the goals department to ensure Ireland reach the knock-out stages.
Blackburn ace Duff is often the foil to Keane’s more predatory instincts in front of the net, yet if the two do not click then expect to see the introduction of Niall Quinn at some stage in the second half.
Quinn is making his international swansong at this tournament, and even at the ripe old age of 35, he still has the heart, strength and presence of mind to fulfill his dream of scoring in the finals.
If the goals do prove hard to come by then Ireland’s defence will have to show the kind of form which led to them posting one of the best records during the qualifying group stages when they conceded just five goals in 10 matches.
With Keane back home in Manchester, veteran Steve Staunton will not only lead the defensive line, but also the team as a whole, so there is great responsibility and pressure on his shoulders.
There is a considerable amount of experience for McCarthy to call upon at the back as Staunton is ably assisted by central partner Kenny Cunningham, who has 38 caps to his credit.
Ian Harte has now hit the 40 mark and it will be hoped he can compliment his left-back duties with his trademark free-kick specials, while he is also designated penalty taker.
Fulham’s Steve Finnan completes the back four with his pace and energy, and will not be found wanting despite winning only 15 caps, while a goalkeeper rated as the best in the Premiership in Shay Given underpins what is undoubtedly McCarthy’s strongest link.
