Kenna Recalled to Irish Squad for Swiss Match

By Ade O'Connor
October 8 2002

Birmingham City captain, Jeff Kenna has been called into the Irish squad to face Switzerland on Wednesday October 16. Kenna last played 3 years ago, when the country were beaten in the Euro 2000 play off against Turkey in Bursa.

Since falling out of favour at his previous club side, Blackburn Rovers, Kenna has been on loan twice and eventually signed for then first division side, Birmingham City. He captained the midlands team to the Premiership and has become an impressive figure at the back.

Kenna’s readmission to the squad will put extra pressure on Gary Breen and Kenny Cunningham. The pair came under fire after a below par performance in Irelands opening defeat to Russia. There will need to be a dramatic improvement in the central defenders quality of play should any hope be held out of the Irish making the next stage of the tournament.

Former under 21 captain, John O`Shea has also been moved up to the main squad. A recent run in Manchester United’s team proved that he has the ability to make it at the very top level, on the world stage. Media speculation has indicated that this recent run in the side may propel the youngster into the starting eleven, however McCarthy is expected to keep faith with the old guard.

Andy O`Brien of Newcastle United also earns a place in the squad, along with Stephen McPhail from Leeds United. Phil Babb retains his spot, despite the own goal gaffe in Moscow.

The Ireland squad to face Switzerland on October 16:

Goalkeepers:
Given (Newcastle United)
Kiely (Charlton Athletic)
Colgan (Hibernian)

Defenders:
Harte (Leeds United)
Breen (West Ham United)
Kelly (Leeds United)
Kenna (Birmingham City)
Cunningham (Birmingham City)
O`Shea (Manchester United)
O`Brien (Newcastle United)
Babb (Sunderland)

Midfielders:
Holland (Ipswich Town)
Healy (Celtic)
Kinsella (Aston Villa)
Carsley (Everton)
Delap (Southampton)
McPhail (Leeds United)
Kilbane (Sunderland)

Forwards:
Keane (Tottenham Hotspur)
Morrison (Birmingham City)
Duff (Blackburn Rovers)
Doherty (Tottenham Hotspur).