Keane out to reach 30-goal target

Robbie Keane has scored 29 goals for his country

Denmark v Rep of Ire
Parken Stadion, Aarhus
Wednesday, 22 August
Kick-off: 1900 BST
Coverage on BBC Radio Five Live & the BBC Sport website.

Robbie Keane has set his sights on a 30th international goal as the Republic of Ireland face Denmark in preparation for crucial Euro qualifiers next month.

Skipper Keane knows the importance of the trips to Slovakia and Czech Republic if the Republic are to get out of Group D and make next year's finals.

"This is going to be a tough match but it's a good test before those games.

"A lot of young lads have come through and games like this are important as they give them experience," he said.

"We have a good chance of qualification, we have to play the Czechs away which will be a tough game, but the lads are fairly confident that we can qualify.

606: DEBATE Do you think this game will have any reflection on the upcoming qualifiers? Sean C - BBC Sport

"It won't be easy but if we have everyone fit and back in the squad we have a chance."

Keane admits his side cannot afford to lose their September qualifiers, but placed particular emphasis on the second clash of the two, in Prague.

The Czech Republic are currently one point ahead of the Republic in the Group D standings, in what has become a straight race for second place behind Germany.

"It's important that we don't lose either game," Keane stressed.

"But it's important we get something out of the Czech game especially - if we lose it's going to be a lot more difficult for us, we're very aware of that.

"We're going into the Denmark game hoping to get some confidence with the games coming up."