Dunne knock not thought to be serious

A clash of heads aside, this morning Republic of Ireland's training session proved a successful operation for manager Steve Staunton.

Richard Dunne and Gary Doherty sat out the latter part of the session after clashing heads in a tackle but neither player is considered an injury doubt for Saturday's European qualifier against Germany.

"We're both big lads," says Doherty who also shifted a slight knock to his ankle in the collision.  "It was nothing really, just one of those things that can happen."

After his squad for the Dutch game was decimated by injury, Staunton will have been mightily relieved to see his players put through their paces at a blustery and occasionally damp Malahide today.

"I know who I want to play," the manager said.  "A lot of the lads weren't over for the Dutch game, but I know they are keen and eager.

"I know what sort of performance I will get. They will be hungry, wanting to do well for their country.  That's important."

Key players Dunne, captain Robbie Keane, Damien Duff and Shay Given were all back in camp having missed the Dutch game.

But Newcastle trio Given, Duff and Stephen Carr as well as Manchester United's Liam Miller and Sunderland striker Stephen Elliott sat out the session nursing minor bumps and bruises.

"There was nothing serious," said Staunton, "just little knocks and strains from the weekend which we knew of.

"They could have trained, but sat things out. If there had been anything major then they would have returned to their clubs."

Although Given is fit-again following a minor back complaint he may yet require a pain killing injection ahead of Saturday's game but his participation in Stuttgart is not in doubt.