Jason McAteer is talking of retiring from the international scene, to concentrate on his domestic career at Sunderland.
No Irish person will ever forget what Jason has contributed to the Irish cause over his nine-year international career. Just 3 goals to his credit in the green jersey, but 1 in particular we will never forget is the Goal that Jason scored for Ireland, when we beat the Dutch 1-0 last year in the World Cup qualifiers. And the Iranians brought Jason down in the box, winning the penalty that saw us take a 2-0 home agg to Tehran, to finally qualify for the 2002 World Cup finals. Although he is merely considering retirement at present it will be a decision that he would think about at great length, with the help of his family, friends and international colleagues.
McAteer will win his 50th Cap for the Republic of Ireland, providing he plays, against the Spanish this Sunday. He will turn 31 on June 18 this year, and with talented youth coming up through the Republic of Ireland Soccer ranks; it may eventually be a joint decision from coach and player. It’s not over for Jason yet!
Injury concerns less concerning
Dean Kiely(Tooth complaint) and Kev Kilbane(groin) trained after missing yesterday’s session, and reported back fit and well. But Stan (thigh) and Keano (knee) sat out today’s session, but are NOT doubtful for Sundays clash with the Spaniards. Tomorrow morning our Boys will all travel to the Suwon World Cup Stadium for training, as the journey is merely 60 minutes from their hotel. Everybody else is fit and well.
Spain coach Jose Antonio Camacho
The Spanish coach has returned his serve to the Irish Camp, informing the Media that the Republic of Ireland are one of the best Teams in the World at the moment. Commenting on our recent results with beating the Dutch and drawing with the Portuguese, Cameroon and the Germans he seems concerned. But lets not forget about a scenario between managers called "mind-games"!
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