Holland injury scare for Republic

Matt Holland has given the Republic of Ireland a scare by missing training today with a temperature.

Matt Holland has given the Republic of Ireland a scare by missing training today with a temperature.

The Charlton midfielder is due to captain Brian Kerr's team in tomorrow night's Euro 2004 make or break clash against Switzerland here in Basle.

Holland remained in bed while his colleagues trained this morning but Republic boss Kerr is confident he will recover in time for the Group 10 clash.

"Matty has a bit of a cold and a temperature so we left him in bed today," said Kerr. "But I expect him to be OK.

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"Matt's the type of player who doesn't miss many games for club or country when selected so I'm optimistic."

Kerr, as always, is refusing to name his team ahead of the match but Holland's sickness means he has even had to delay telling his players.

Kerr added: "I want to make sure Matt is OK before I confirm the team to the lads, but I'm sure they have a fair idea from the way we have trained.

"I might tell the players later this evening, but in any case I'll pull aside anyone who I think is anxious and put their mind at rest in advance."

Holland took over the captaincy from Kenny Cunningham, who misses out through suspension.