Keane picks up top award

Keane picks up Republic international player of the year

BBC Sport Online's Lyle Jackson follows the Republic of Ireland in the build-up to the World Cup when they take on Russia on Wednesday.

The World Cup build-up is a priority, but manager Mick McCarthy still wants the Republic of Ireland to extend their fine home record.

McCarthy's side face Russia in a friendly game at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday evening.

The Irish have not lost in Dublin since Scotland's 2-1 success in May 2000.

Six wins and two draws have followed and McCarthy does not want to see the record tarnished on Wednesday.

I am a bit uncomfortable about receiving this because everyone deserves credit

Roy Keane

"There are no points at stake, but it is going to be a competitive game because we always want to win at Lansdowne," said McCarthy.

"I know the players want to impress and get to the World Cup.

"The plans are going fine. This is really the start, then we have Denmark, USA and Nigeria to play."

McCarthy and his squad were at the FAI International Football Awards in Dublin's Citywest Hotel on Sunday night.

Irish skipper Roy Keane was named international player of the year while Blackburn's Damien Duff won young player of the year.

Keane, who flew over immediately after Manchester United's 2-0 win at Charlton, said he should not be singled out for special praise.

"I am a bit uncomfortable about receiving this because everyone involved in getting us to the World Cup deserves credit," said Keane, who first won this award in 1997.

"I have not thought about the World Cup finals that much yet.

"There are things to worry about club level. "But it was important that we qualified. It was a difficult group.

Special award

"However, we cannot rest on our laurels. If the preparations go well and the facilities are up to scratch I think we can do well in Japan."

Other award recipients on Sunday night included former Arsenal and West Ham midfielder Liam Brady who entered the Hall of Fame.

And McCarthy's predecessor Jack Charlton, who guided the Republic to the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, received a special international award.

Bohemians striker Glenn Crowe was named Eircom League player of the year.

Former Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers and Derry City manager Jim McLaughlin was honoured with a special merit award.