Thats the percentage and official recognition of the Irish Contribution to the F.A. Barclaycard Premier League this Season. With Niall Quinn (Sunderland), Roy Keane (Manchester United), Steve Finnan (Fulham) & Shay Given (Newcastle United) , all four players making up over a third of the best team in top flight British Football. The four were honoured by the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), at their annual dinner. And theres more too.
Despite injuries in the 01-02 season, Mark Kennedy (Wolves) was named in the top team in Division I, and Graham Kavanagh (Cardiff City) in Div II. In the third division the honour was bestowed on Graham Coughlan (Plymouth Argyle), totalling in "Seven Irish" men deservedly
Roy Keane (Ham-string), Niall Quinn (Neck), Richard Sadlier (Hip), Stephen Carr (Knee), Keith O'Neill(Was not called up, but has a double break in his leg), Mark Kennedy (Groin).
The good news is that Gary Doherty has rehabilitated well from last years broken leg. Gary has ran out a number of games with the Spurs reserves, and he has subsequently been called up by Mick for the friendly with the U.S.A.. Its believed that Gary may be involved in the game, taking on a possible "Striker" roll in place of Quinny, as Doherty can play in various positions well enough.
And finally Mark Kennedy seems to be recovering well from a groin muscle tear. Hes back in full training and may make the final 23 to Korea.
Goalkeepers: Shay Given, (Newcastle), Dean Kiely (Charlton), Nick Colgan (Hibernian)
Defenders: Steve Staunton (Aston Villa), Ian Harte (Leeds United), Richard Dunne (Manchester City), Gary Breen (Coventry City), Andy O'Brien (Newcastle), Gary Kelly (Leeds United), Steve Finnan (Fulham), Gary Doherty (Tottenham Hotspur)
Midfielders: Jason McAteer (Sunderland), Matt Holland (Ipswich), Kevin Kilbane (Sunderland), Steven Reid (Millwall), Colin Healy (Coventry), Mark Kinsella (Charlton), Rory Delap (Southampton)
Strikers: Robbie Keane (Leeds United), Clinton Morrison (Crystal Palace), Damien Duff (Blackburn Rovers), David Connolly (Wimbledon).
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