The Republic of Ireland captain defied all odds last night with a 28th minute goal in Germany, against a fired up injured Bayer Leverkusen in the second leg of the UEFA Champions league semi final. United could only draw 1-1 in the Champions League semi-final second leg in the BayArena and went out on the away goals rule.
But despite coming back miraculously early from an agitated ham-string injury, Keane could not find that final edge to take his side, Manchester United, to Glasglow for the final. Leverkusen had the two away goal advantage, and although it looked that the red devils would hold onto the 1-0 lead last night, Neuville equalised for the Germans just before half time.
The good news for Ireland is that Jens Novotny will almost surely be absent from Germanys world cup squad, with damaged crutiate ligaments. And Leverkusens key man "Michael Ballack" may also be a doubt for the Germans with persistent injuries.
Irish fans will also be pleased to know that Keane has one, if not possibly two more hurdles' to overcome before the World cup finals. And that is Manchester United's remaining home games to Arsenal on the 08/05 and Charlton on the 11th.
Elsewhere
Republic of Ireland international, and Wolves captain, Paul Butler will try to overturn Sundays 3-1 grilling by Norwich. The Foxes take on Norwich at the Molineux tonight, with the overall winner taking the first Final spot place in Cardiff.
In the other semi-final playoff, Birmingham City will be away to Millwall, which will see both Republic of Ireland internationals Jeff Kenna for the Blues(Captain), and Stephen Reid for the Lions. First leg ended 1-1, where Stephen Reid was voted Man of the match
And finally theres more news on Mark Kennedy's injury, with his World Cup hopes still alive after a visit to a specialist. The midfielder, who missed Ireland's match with the USA with a groin injury, broke down in training on Friday ahead of Wolves play-off semi-final against Norwich, and it had been feared he had aggravated the injury. However his specialist has now assured him that he has no lasting damage and he should return to training against this week. Is doubtful for Korea now surely, as he has not played football in the last four weeks.
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