Kelly out but Duff could play a role

Soccer:There was mixed news on the injury front for the Republic of Ireland today as they prepare for the second leg of their Euro 2012 play-off against Estonia on Tuesday. Stephen Kelly is definitely out of the match, but concerns over his Fulham teammate have eased considerably.

Kelly picked up a groin strain during the 4-0 in Tallinn on Friday night, a result that virtually guarantees Ireland’s presence at next summer’s Euro 2012 finals. Kelly’s loss won’t be too keenly felt with John O’Shea, who trained with the rest of the squad this afternoon, always likely to start after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Duff could also play some part at the Aviva Stadium after he responded well to treatment on a rib injury. It had initially been thought the winger cracked ribs in an accidental collision with Glenn Whelan but scans revealed no fracture and the swelling has subsided overnight.

Speaking after this afternoon’s training session in Malahide, assistant manager Marco Tardelli confirmed that O’Shea is likely to start, saying the Sunderland defender had come through training over the last two days without suffering any adverse reaction.

Describing the mood in the camp as buoyant – “it would put a smile on your face,” he explained – Tardelli spoke of his pride in helping Ireland to the brink of a major championship.

“I don’t know how important it is for him (Giovanni Trapattoni),” he said, “obviously he wanted to reach the finals. But for me this is very important, I’m very proud of this success.”

Asked if he would relish being drawn against his native Italy, Tardelli stressed that whatever group Ireland find themselves in will be tough but they should fear no-one.

“It is all the same,” he said. “Yes, I would like to face Italy but there are many strong teams. We can play Italy, we can play England, we are going to have to face anyone if we reach the finals.”

Despite the jovial mood, Tardelli insisted there would be no lack of focus from either staff or players.

“Giovanni is well. Every day, he comes out with new sentences and new phrases and new jokes,” he added. “But once it comes to training, he becomes like always, focused on the match and speaking only about the match to the team.

“The supporters are very happy and the country is very happy. It’s important for the players who have given us everything. We are proud to train this team because we have very good players.”