Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr spoke today of his relief that none of his 22-man squad preparing for Saturday's crucial Euro 2004 qualifier against Switzerland in Basel picked up knocks in last weekend's league games across the channel.
The squad trained twice today at Malahide United's ground and all bar Tottenham's Gary Doherty took part. The Spurs utility man was taken to hospital for precautionary checks on a blood infection but Kerr confirmed he would arrive at the team's base in Portmarnock tomorrow fit for training.
"Gary trained with Spurs on Thursday," Kerr explained. "Chris [Houghton] was there and said Gary didn't feel too well afterwards. Chris was surprised that Gary was brought to hospital but he was put on antibiotics and feels a lot better. He was in good form this morning."
Damien Duff sported an ice pack on his leg on arrival at the team hotel but the manager said there were no injury problems with the Chelsea winger. Kerr said the ice pack was merely a precaution following Duff's game at Middlebrough on Sunday.
Kerr said he was "delighted" with today's double training session and that his player's had reported in fit and well. He traveled to Old Trafford on Saturday to watch John O'Shea against Birmingham City but was "relieved" to see the Waterford man remain on the substitutes bench throughout.
"I was delighted that John didn't play. I was hoping that some of the lads would and some wouldn't play at the weekend and that none picked up injuries. I was delighted that everyone turned up today. There's been a bit of consistency in the squads lately."
Robbie Keane's return to the international fold following injury provides a massive attacking boost ahead of Saturday's win-or-bust game and Kerr revealed that the striker's impressive return to club action has been "immense."
"I'm delighted to have him back," Kerr said. "He loves playing for his country and showed his commitment by travelling to Albania shortly after his father's death. His all round form last weekend against Everton (a 3-0 home win in which Keane scored the third) was immense."
Similar sentiments were echoed by Sunderland defender Gary Breen, a player who will need to call upon all his international experience (he will win his 60th cap on Saturday) owing to the fact that captain and central defensive partner Kenny Cunningham's misses the game through suspension.
"I spoke to the Everton lads [Kevin Kilbane and Lee Carsley] in training today and they said that Robbie was the difference in Saturday's game. I think the rest (while injured) has done him the world of good and he's looking very positive."
"We're definitely going to miss Kenny," Breen said. "He's a fantastic player and such a calming influence but there's top ability players available and it's up to the manager who he brings in. I'm just going to train hard between now and then, draw on my experience and make sure I'm in the team."
Breen dismissed suggestions that Switzerland would be easy prey on Saturday following their humiliating 4-1 defeat in Moscow and warned of a backlash in Basel.
"The group is really hotting up now. Switzerland have led from the front but now their suddenly looking over their shoulders. Any team that comes to Ireland and beats us we can't take lightly but hopefully they're feeling the nerves. We know what we have to do and we're looking forward to it."
Cardiff City captain Graham Kavanagh, who last played for the Republic in 1999, admitted he was "buzzing" following his recall from the international wilderness. Although unlikely to shift either Mark Kinsella or Colin Healy from the starting XI, the Dubliner is relishing the prospect of being part of "such a huge game."
"It's been a while but I've always wanted to get back and make a claim at international level. I'm buzzing about it. Since promotion to the first division I've been really enjoying my football and it gave me tremendous heart to see Brian watching my progress at Cardiff games."
Kerr's squad continue their preparations with training sessions tomorrow morning and afternoon at Malahide United's ground.