Jon Walters is looking all set to be able to take his place in the Stade de France against Sweden on Monday after coming through a full training session with the Irish squad in Versailles today, writes Liam Mackey, Irish Examiner Soccer Correspondent in Versailles .
Barring any delayed reaction following his recent Achilles woes, there is now growing confidence in the camp that the Stoke City man will make Martin O’Neill’s starting eleven.
There was also continued positive news on Robbie Keane and Robbie Brady, both of whom appear to have shaken off their respective calf and back problems.
“Jon trained today and got through the session, start to finish, and we’ll see over the next 24 hours if there’s any reaction,” said Roy Keane.
“I’m sure he’ll be delighted and so are we to have everyone available for selection. It’s great news.
“It was a decent enough session too. It wasn’t as if Jon just walked around. But if he does have any sort of reaction we’ll deal with it, we have options. That’s what sport is about. You have to get ready for any mishaps along the way.”
The assistant manager also spoke for the first time about the new contract agreement he, Martin O’Neill and the rest of the coaching staff have struck with the FAI to stay on for the next World Cup campaign.
Asked if he is happy to park his management ambitions at club level for the time being, Keane replied, “Obviously, yeah”, though he declined to discuss the detail of the, as yet, unsigned deal and whether or not it might permit him to leave his post should another offer arise.
Jon Walters back in action this morning! 🙌 #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/lQWWbauKLo
— FAIreland (@FAIreland) June 11, 2016
On his decision to stick with Ireland, Keane said: “I had to wait to see Martin’s plans and he wants me to be part of it. I didn’t hesitate.
“I am keen to get back to club management but I’m 44 and there’s plenty of time for that. I’m happy to be staying on with Ireland. It’s a brilliant job and I really enjoy it.
“I’m sure the other stuff will fall into place, I’ve had offers when I’ve been in the job but not something that’s rocked my boat enough.”
Speaking at the squad’s training ground, Keane announced that he was thoroughly satisfied with the facilities which have been laid on for the Irish squad in Versailles.
“The FAI have done a brilliant job. I’m trying to find something to complain about – maybe my bed’s a bit too soft,” he quipped.
“Everything is fantastic.”
The fans are starting to arrive! Send in your photos using #COYBIG! #EURO2016 pic.twitter.com/Ar9Zs0mIS3
— FAIreland (@FAIreland) June 11, 2016
The squad last night gathered at their hotel to watch the opening game of Euro 2016, as hosts France beat Romania 2-1 at the national stadium where Ireland will face Sweden on Monday.
“We’re looking forward to it,” said Keane. “It was great to see the first game of football. We are here to enjoy it, it’s fantastic for fans and you can feel the buzz.
“But we’re professional people and we’ll enjoy it a lot more if we get results. We’re focused on going out and doing the country proud.”
