In the course of an event to mark the squad’s departure to France for the European Championships, O’Neill was reported to have suggested he’d brought along staff members Steve Guppy and Steve Walford to the Superbowl in the US because he didn’t want anyone thinking that himself and his assistant Roy Keane were “queers”.

When asked about the controversy, which courted the disapproval of the Irish Gay and Lesbian Equality Network, O’Neill said: “If I had made inappropriate comments then I obviously apologise. I will attempt during the rest of my time not to make such inappropriate comments.”

Keane made some comments himself last week which provoked headlines but those were directed at players in the aftermath of their loss to Belarus in the final friendly before the Euros. Aiden McGeady, in particular, was signalled out by the Ireland assistant for criticism.

O’Neill revealed that Keane has spoken to the players in question personally, emphasising there is no lingering tension between the parties.

“Roy’s words were slightly on the strong side,” he said. “Any pieces of criticism the players get from Roy or myself they take on board or dismiss it accordingly.

“The reaction of the players, I have to say, has been very strong. If the Belarus game was a bit of blip, with some of the players being a bit rusty, then that’s absolutely fine. It was a godsend to have that game because some of the players hasn’t played much football and needed it.”

On the injury front, Jon Walters sat out training again due to his calf injury and he was joined on the sidelines by Robbie Brady, after the Norwich City wideman suffered a back injury over the weekend.

Robbie Keane’s recovery from a calf injury, O’Neill explained, was ahead of schedule with the Ireland captain believing he will be fit for Monday’s Group E opener against Sweden.