The opposition: Gavin Cummiskey finds the Czechs in reticent mood

When an opposing national coach extols Ireland's "offensive" virtues, you know we have sunk deep in the mire of World football. This was accidentally condescending.

This cliché used to be about Irish "defensive steel". The Czech Republic manager Karel Bruckner, captain Tomas Rosicky and "team leader" Javoslav Dudl (we presume he is a coach, blame the translator) turned to the only players they know: Robbie Keane and Damien Duff.

This ruined follow-on questions about the innovative pairing of John O'Shea and Paul McShane against the Cheech and Chong of Czech football. Jan Kohler and Milan Baros are expected to start with Arsenal's new playmaker, Rosicky, in behind them. Great news.

Bruckner adopted the modern day theme of killing the opposition with kindness, when asked about the Ireland's style.

"I have seen Irish teams in previous qualifying campaigns and I've seen them during this group. I am waiting for a tough game with some very good offensive play. Good movement. Fast.

"I suppose it will be very similar to our last game here two years ago when we lost 2-1."

Aren't we lacking the quality of two years ago?

"No. because tomorrow's game is a qualifier and the last game was a friendly," shot back Bruckner, although by that logic a more competitive Czech Republic display is equally expected.

That Bruckner's delivery came with a straight face is even more galling, although any sense of irony could have been lost in translation. The Czech media brigade and even one of the top table had a better grasp of English than the visiting PR man.

"We know our opponents have very good, quality players," said Rosicky, following the "offensive" theme adopted by his coach. "Duff and Keane are offensively very dangerous. We also know they make mistakes defensively and hope to exploit that."

"Team leader" Dudl lost his calm demeanour when a local radio reporter asked Rosicky to repeat these comments on Keane and Duff, and more importantly the defensive part, in English. "No! This is our press conference," replied Dudl, also in English, completely blowing his own cover.

That was the closest they came to discussing the shambles that was Nicosia.

Of course, Bruckner has little concern for Irish problems. He replied to most questions with a firm 'No', especially when asked to comment on the Cyprus game?

"No. Both the last game and the Irish injury troubles have no influence on our preparations."

Okay, how about this then: Do you have any encouragement for Steve Staunton and the current situation?

Bruckner had an exchange of words with Dudl who then stated (in English): "It happens. It is quite difficult as only one team can win. I sincerely wish to my colleague good luck - but after tomorrow's match."

That might be a tad late - for Staunton and Ireland.